Former U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher has died.
Christopher served as America’s chief diplomat for four years during the Clinton administration and “eschewed confrontation in favor of negotiation with friend and foe alike,” according to a posting on the U.S. State Department website.
“The cause of peace and freedom and decency have never had a more tireless or tenacious advocate,” Clinton said in 1996 after Christopher announced he was stepping down from the post.
Affectionately known as “Chris” to his family and friends, Christopher died Friday from complications of kidney and bladder cancer, according to his family. He is survived by his wife, four children and five grandchildren. He was 85.
