Colombian poet Alvaro Mutis, one of region's most important writers, dies in Mexico at age 90

MEXICO CITY – Mexico's cultural arts commission says that famed Colombian poet and author Alvaro Mutis has died in Mexico. He was 90 years old.

Mutis was considered one of the most important Latin American writers of his time, with his work earning major international honors such as the Xavier Villaurrutia, Prince of Asturias and Cervantes prizes.

Mexico's National Commission for Culture and the Arts is lamenting the death of the acclaimed literary giant via its Twitter account.

Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos also sent his condolences after Mutis' death was announced Sunday night.