Statement by Ambassador Cameron P. Munter On The Death of Richard Holbrooke

December 14, 2010

Islamabad - Ambassador Cameron Munter released the following statement on the death of Richard Holbrooke:

Marilyn and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our good friend and one of the best friends Pakistan has ever had, Richard Holbrooke.

Richard had an abiding commitment to deepening the partnership between the United States and Pakistan. He traveled here countless times. After the devastating monsoon floods, he toured affected areas and displaced persons camps. He understood the most critical needs on the ground here and increased American aid to help the millions of people affected. And he tirelessly rallied the international community in a way that only he could in order to get assistance for Pakistan in its hour of need.

Those who knew Richard were astounded by his intellect and energy, driven crazy by the reach and doggedness of his ideas and determination, and ultimately awed by his ability to make things happen. I'm sure that he was convinced of his own invincibility until he took his last breath. He was truly a giant of American diplomacy and we will not see his like again.