U.S. Middle East Envoy George Mitchell resigns

U.S. Middle East Envoy George Mitchell resigns

2011-05-14 06:01:57 GMT+7 (ICT)

WASHINGTON, D.C. (BNO NEWS) -- U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East George Mitchell resigned, U.S. President Barack Obama confirmed on Friday.

Mitchell, 77, a former Senator who in 1998 helped negotiate the Good Friday agreement in Northern Ireland's peace process, said his intention was to serve as Special Envoy for two years, but he had served his post longer than that time.

"I strongly support your vision of comprehensive peace in the Middle East and thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of your administration," Mitchell said on Friday when he presented his resignation. "It has been an honor for me to again serve our country."

President Obama described Mitchell as a "tireless advocate" for peace with "the toughest job imaginable," adding that his deep commitment to resolving conflict and advancing democracy "has contributed immeasurably to the goal of two states living side by side in peace and security."

Despite Mitchell's resignation, Obama said the U.S. remained committed to peace in the Middle East and to build on "George's hard work and progress toward achieving this goal."  

Meanwhile, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Mitchell had taken the "hardest challenges with determination and talent."

"From the Senate to Northern Ireland to the State Department, his work has brought peace and increasing prosperity to millions of people around the world and made our own country stronger and more secure," Clinton stated, adding that the State Department would miss his steady leadership and wise counsel, but would "carry forward his commitment to pursue a comprehensive peace in the Middle East." 

With Mitchell's resignation effective next Friday, Obama also announced that Deputy Middle East Envoy, David Hale would be serving as the Acting Envoy upon his departure.

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