UN special envoy for Syria resigns for personal reasons

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen said Thursday that he has resigned for personal reasons.

"I have informed the (UN) secretary-general of my intention to step down after more than six and a half years serving as the United Nations special envoy for Syria, and he has graciously accepted my request," Pedersen told the Security Council.

"It has been my intention for quite some time to move on for personal reasons after a long period of service," he said.

The 69-year-old envoy said he will be departing in the near future, but added that he will remain fully engaged in his responsibilities until his final day in office. No exact date of his departure was given.

Pedersen thanked UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for his trust and unwavering support, and the Security Council for its sustained backing.

Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for Guterres, said the secretary-general holds "high regard" for Pedersen. Enditem