*EPF510 12/03/2004
Danforth Resigns as U.S. Ambassador to United Nations
(Thanked Bush for opportunity to work on Iraq, Sudan) (400)

John Danforth, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, submitted his resignation to President Bush on December 3.

Bush called Danforth "a man of strong convictions and deep integrity who has made our country better and stronger" and specifically commended Danforth's service as special envoy for peace in the Sudan in 2001, saying, "the world is closer than ever to seeing an end to the Sudanese North-South conflict," because of Danforth's "tireless efforts."

In a letter to Bush dated November 22, Danforth said that he appreciated the opportunity to serve at the United Nations, "especially as we attempt to enlist greater U.N. participation in the future of Iraq, and as we advance the interest you have personally shown in helping the desperate people of Sudan."

Danforth, citing a desire to spend time with his wife of 47 years, has asked to leave his post by January 20, when Bush will be inaugurated into his second term. However, Danforth expressed a willingness to serve Bush again on short-term diplomatic missions as he did in the Sudan.

Prior to his appointment, Danforth -- a lawyer and ordained Episcopalian priest --served three terms as a Republican Senator from Missouri. In July, Danforth succeeded former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations John D. Negroponte. Negroponte is currently the U.S. ambassador to Iraq.

A replacement for Danforth has not yet been named.

Below find President Bush's statement on the resignation of Ambassador Danforth:

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
December 3, 2004

STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT

Jack Danforth has served with distinction as United States Ambassador to the United Nations. He represented our Nation ably and well during a time when we are waging a global war on terror. Because of his tireless efforts as Special Envoy to the Sudan, the world is closer than ever to seeing an end to the Sudanese North-South conflict. Throughout his life, including as a distinguished United States Senator and as Attorney General of Missouri, Jack Danforth has been a man of strong convictions and deep integrity who has made our country better and stronger. I understand his desire to return home to Missouri, and I thank Jack for his superb service and his friendship. I wish Sally and him all the best.

(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)

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