News / Politics
Ban Ki-moon Sworn in as Eighth U.N. Secretary-General
Ban Ki-moon became the first Asian in 35 years to hold the position of U.N. secretary-general after being sworn in on Thursday.
Speaking to ambassadors from U.N. member-states and other dignitaries the South Korean appeared optimistic about the future of the 192-nation organization, “By strengthening the three pillars of our United Nations -- security, development and human rights -- we can build a more peaceful, more prosperous and more just world for succeeding generations.”
While declaring that he would like to “act as a harmonizer and bridge-builder” he assured his listeners that he would not be intimidated by world issues, nor would he allow the United Nations to conduct itself in a “passive and fearful” manner.
As part of his oath Ban swore, “not to seek or accept instructions in regard to the performance of my duties from any government or other authority external to the organization.”
With recent events surrounding nuclear proliferation, turmoil in the Middle East and the rise of global terrorism Ban will be tested early.
The 62-year-old Ban will replace outgoing secretary-general Kofi Annan, 68, of Ghana on January 1. Annan served two five-year terms as the secretary-general.
