The United States saddened by Rau's death, sends condolences

The United States is saddened by the death of former German President Johannes Rau, State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said Friday. "President Rau will be remembered for his long and distinguished record of public service to Germany as mayor, minister-president and federal president," he said.

He said Rau gave voice to Germany's moral conscience, championed human rights and advocated national unity and reconciliation between east and west. McCormack said the United States extended its condolences to Rau's widow and their daughters.

Rau, who served as president from 1999-2004, died Friday at age 75, reported AP.

P.T.