Biden Mourns Archbishop Tutu's Passing... "Creating a Freer and More Equal World"

President Joe Biden of the United States

[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Jo] On the 26th (local time), U.S. President Joe Biden expressed condolences on the passing of Desmond Tutu, the honorary archbishop of South Africa, stating, "His legacy will resonate beyond borders and generations."

According to the White House, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden said in a statement that "This morning, after Christmas, we are heartbroken to hear the news that Archbishop Tutu, a true servant of God and the people, has passed away."

Archbishop Tutu was a leading figure in the fight to abolish apartheid (racial segregation policy) in South Africa and was a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. After being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1997, he battled the illness and passed away this morning at the age of 90.

President Biden said, "His courage and moral clarity inspired our commitment to change U.S. policy toward South Africa's apartheid regime," adding, "Just a few months ago, we celebrated his 90th birthday and joined in reflecting on the power of his message of justice, equality, truth, and reconciliation in the face of racism and extremism today."

He also emphasized, "Born into poverty and deep-rooted racism, Archbishop Tutu followed his spiritual calling to create a better, freer, and more equal world," and "His legacy will resonate beyond borders and generations."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.