Press Release (2005)047 3 April 2005

Statement by the Secretary General on Pope John Paul II Pope John Paul II's passing is a sad event for the entire international community. His voice has been for decades a clarion call for global peace and justice. Through his personal determination and courage, he played a pivotal role in bringing democracy and freedom to millions of people in Central and Eastern Europe. He will certainly leave a legacy as one of the historic figures of the 20th century.

Tel: Fax: +32 (0)2 707 50 41 +32 (0)2 707 50 57 B-1110 Brussels/Bruxelles http://www.nato.int press@hq.nato.int