Henry Kissinger, the influential former U.S. Secretary of State, passed away at the age of 100 on Wednesday, as announced by his consulting firm, Kissinger Associates, News About Nigeria gathered.
A private funeral is planned, with a memorial service to follow in New York, his hometown.
Kissinger, a prominent American scholar and statesman, played a pivotal role in shaping the post-World War II world.
While the statement did not disclose the cause of death, it noted that Kissinger remained active, even travelling to China in July to meet President Xi Jinping.
Former President George W. Bush paid tribute to Kissinger, describing him as one of the most dependable and distinctive voices on foreign affairs.
Bush expressed gratitude for Kissinger’s service and advice, emphasising his admiration for Kissinger’s journey as a young boy fleeing the Nazis to later fighting against them in the U.S. Army.
“America has lost one of the most dependable and distinctive voices on foreign affairs with the passing of Henry Kissinger,” Bush wrote in a statement.
“I have long admired the man who fled the Nazis as a young boy from a Jewish family, then fought them in the United States Army.”
“I am grateful for that service and advice, but I am most grateful for his friendship,” Bush continued. “Laura and I will miss his wisdom, his charm, and his humor. And we will always be thankful for the contributions of Henry Kissinger.”
Kissinger’s legacy includes a historic and secret outreach to China during the Cold War, leading to President Richard Nixon’s landmark visit in 1972 and the establishment of US-China relations.
This engagement contributed significantly to China’s transformation into the world’s second-largest economy.
Despite controversy, including his role in the Vietnam War negotiations, Kissinger was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
His unprecedented dual role as both secretary of state and national security advisor under President Gerald Ford marked a unique chapter in US governance.
The passing of Henry Kissinger marks the end of an era with tributes pouring in for his contributions to American diplomacy and global affairs.
