Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, has announced the appointment of Horst Kohler, former President of Germany, as his Personal Envoy for Western Sahara.

The new Personal Envoy succeeds Christopher Ross of the United States who completed his assignment on 30th April this year. The Secretary-General hailed Mr. Ross' tireless efforts and dedication to facilitate negotiations between the parties in order to achieve a just, durable and mutually acceptable political solution, which would provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara.