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Ban Ki-Moon cements position

Pledges to reform U.N., if elected

Ban Ki-Moon

Seoul: South Korea's Foreign Minister, clear favourite to become the next U.N. Secretary-General, vowed on Tuesday to pursue crucial reforms of the world forum if elected, and seek a peaceful resolution to North Korea's nuclear standoff.

Mr. Ban Ki-Moon (62) cemented his position to succeed Kofi Annan after an informal poll on Monday by the 15 U.N. Security Council members showed 14, including the five veto-wielding members, voted in favour of Mr. Ban.

South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun congratulated Mr. Ban ``for the good results.''

In Seoul, Mr. Ban said he would push for reform of the U.N., which has been criticised for its ineffectiveness in dealing with global issues.

``There have been many changes around the world during the past 60 years ... various threats that we have not experienced in the past,'' Mr. Ban said.

``So it is true that there have been doubts and criticism over whether the U.N. has responded appropriately and effectively.

``The U.N. has a great task to exercise a more positive, efficient and effective leadership to manage well the challenges and tasks of the 21st century through reform,'' he said.

``If I become the Secretary-General, I will exert greatest efforts for this through close cooperation with the U.N. member countries.''

He also pledged to help resolve the international standoff over North Korea's nuclear programme, saying he would use his expertise in dealing with the Communist nation ``to give a boost to issues concerning peace and security of the Korean Peninsula.'' — AP

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