Ban Ki-moon gets nod for second term as UN Secretary General

BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhuanet) -- The UN Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution recommending UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon be elected for a second term. Andrew Dupuis has the story.

Gabon's UN ambassador Nelson Messone made the announcement to the press after the 15-nation Security Council met behind closed doors to consider the recommendation for the appointment of the UN Secretary-General.

Ban expressed gratitude in a statement after the nomination, saying he appreciates the confidence and support, and is proud of what has been accomplished during his time as head of the UN.

Ban said, "I am deeply honored by the unanimous vote of the Security Council to recommend me to the General Assembly for a second term as Secretary-General. With this recommendation by the Security Council, I will humbly put myself for consideration by the General Assembly. It is an immense privilege to serve this great organization as Secretary-General, and I am grateful for the confidence and support."

UN officials say the full UN General Assembly is expected to hold a formal vote next week.

Ban Ki-Moon's re-election required the approval of all five permanent members of the Security Council.

Last Monday, the 66 year old announced his formal application to serve a second consecutive term.

Ban began his current five-year term in January 2007, and if re-elected, he'll run the organization until the end of 2016.

The UN General Assembly is expected to confirm the appointment on June 21st.

Source: Xinhua.
Link: http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/video/2011-06/18/c_13937099.htm.