Friday, 01/12/2017 16:34 (GMT+7)
Dr. Surin Pitsuwan, former Secretary-General of ASEAN, has passed away at the age of 68 on November 30th.
Former ASEAN Secretary-General Surin Pitsuwan (Photo: ASEAN)
Dr Surin, who was also a former Thai Foreign Minister, died of an acute heart attack, Thailand's Democrat Party said.
His political career began in 1986 when he was elected as a Member of Parliament for the first time, while also teaching at the Thammasat University.
In the 1990s, he served as Thailand’s Deputy Foreign Minister from 1992 to 1995 before becoming Foreign Minister under then Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai from 1997 until 2001. During Thailand’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 1999, he led Southeast Asia’s efforts to help restore law and order in the East Timor crisis.
He graduated in 1972 from Claremont College in California, before receiving a master's degree and a PhD from Harvard University in 1974 and 1982, respectively.
Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Surin “contributed greatly to the advancement and interest of ASEAN, as well as the promotion of ASEAN on the international stage. His outstanding personality, knowledge and wisdom were truly recognized by global leaders.”
Two weeks ago, Mr. Surin spoke at a conference marking the 50th anniversary of ASEAN./.
Compiled by BTA