U Thant, third Secretary-General of the United Nations
On 22 January 2009, United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Yangon launched a website as part of celebrations marking the 100th birthday of U Thant, the UN's third Secretary-General. The special website features U Thant's biography, notable quotes and a photo gallery.
U Thant was born on 22 January 1909 at Pantanaw, in then Burma. He was appointed Acting Secretary-General of the United Nations in November 1961 after the death of then Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld. He was reappointed for a second term in November 1962.
U Thant was admired for his skill as a patient and subtle negotiator. He is credited with ending the UN operation in the Congo that had claimed the life of Dag Hammarskjöld and helping to defuse the Cuban missile crisis.
In a message issued to mark the occasion, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, "Thant's patience and unassuming demeanor were valuable assets in his conduct of quiet diplomacy. His approach to global challenges was also informed by a strong commitment to a practice of compassion and tolerance, bred of his devotion to Buddhism. I have the greatest admiration for him and his achievements, and pay tribute to his life of public service. He left a legacy that will live on in the history of the United Nations and the world in our work for peace."
For more information on the life and work of U Thant, please visit UNIC Yangon's special website.