Press Release No. <a name="P16_75"></a>03/139

Press Release: Statement by IMF Managing Director Horst Köhler on the Attack on the UN Headquarters in Baghdad

August 19, 2003


    Horst Köhler, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), made the following statement on the attack on the UN headquarters building in Baghdad.

    "I wish to express on behalf of the International Monetary Fund my deepest regret at the news of the death of Sergio Vieira de Mello, the UN Special Representative, and others killed and injured in the attack on the UN headquarters building in Baghdad.

    "Five IMF members of staff, and an IMF security consultant, were at the scene of the explosion. Four staff members sustained injuries, for which they have received treatment. We have been unable to establish contact with the fifth staff member nor with the security consultant, but reports indicate that they were injured and are receiving treatment. At this time, our thoughts are with our colleagues and their families."






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