COLOGNE, Germany

Murad Wilfried Hofmann, a prominent German diplomat and writer, passed away on Monday at 89 years of age.

Hofmann was born in 1931 in Germany's Aschaffenburg. He studied at the University of Munich and Harvard University.

He worked as a German diplomat for 33 years, serving as ambassador to Algeria, ambassador to Morocco and as director of information for NATO.

Born into a Catholic family, Hofmann converted to Islam in 1980 and has written many articles and books on intercultural issues and religion like "Journey to Makkah" and "Islam: The Alternative".

He was an honorary member and advisor to the Central Council of Muslims (ZMD) in Germany.

ZMD Chairman Aiman ​​Mazyek in a condolence message said the death of Hofmann is a great loss for both Muslims and non-Muslims.

Mazyek said Hofmann was a "brilliant" thinker, a scientist and a "first class" personality.

"He was a great role model for many people," Mazyek added.

* Contribution and writing by Fatih Hafiz Mehmet in Ankara