Javier Pérez de Cuéllar

Profession: UN Secretary-General and Prime Minister of Peru

Nationality:

Biography: Javier Pérez de Cuéllar was a Peruvian diplomat and politician who served as the fifth Secretary-General of the United Nations from January 1982 to December 1991. His tenure as Secretary-General was marked by efforts to mediate conflicts and crises around the world, and he was widely respected for his commitment and diplomatic skills.

Born in Lima, Pérez de Cuéllar graduated from the Catholic University of Peru and joined the Peruvian diplomatic service in 1940. His diplomatic career included postings in various countries and roles in the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Pérez de Cuéllar's term as Secretary-General of the United Nations came during a period of significant global tensions, including the Cold War. He played a crucial role in mediating conflicts in the Middle East, including the Iran-Iraq War, and in Central America. One of his notable achievements was overseeing the peace process in Cambodia, which culminated in the 1991 Paris Peace Accords.

Pérez de Cuéllar also focused on the reform and enhancement of the United Nations, advocating for more efficient operations and increased attention to development issues. His tenure was characterized by a diplomatic approach that emphasized negotiation and consensus-building.

After completing two terms as UN Secretary-General, Pérez de Cuéllar returned to Peru. He ran unsuccessfully for the presidency of Peru in 1995, then served jointly as Prime Minister of Peru and Minister of Foreign Relation from 2000 to 2001. After leaving office he was appointed as Ambassador to France until his retirement in 2004.

Born: January 19, 1920
Birthplace: Lima, Peru

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Goat/Sheep
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: March 4, 2020 (aged 100)