39. From Giandomenico Picco, 20 January 1982

On behalf of the Secretary-General, I should like to thank you for your letter of 28 December 1981.

The Secretary-General was indeed grateful for your good wishes for his endeavours in the service of the international community. He also appreciated your kind invitation to participate in a special meditation programme this month, but I am sure you will understand that his many commitments in connexion with his very recent assumption of office will prevent him from joining you on this occasion.

May I also take this opportunity to convey to you the Secretary-General’s sincere appreciation for the kind birthday wishes you expressed at your meeting on 18 January.

Yours sincerely,

— Giandomenico Picco — First Officer