Russia expects new UN chief to give new impetus to world body

Russia expressed hope on Sunday that newly appointed United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon will give a new impetus to the world body in addressing global challenges.

The United Nations General Assembly on Friday appointed with acclamation South Korean Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon as the world body's next secretary general to succeed Kofi Annan when he steps down on Dec. 31.

"Taking account of the support most countries have given to the new secretary general, we hope that he will effectively perform his challenging duties and give the UN a new impetus in addressing global problems," the Foreign Ministry in Moscow said in a statement.

Ban, 62, a veteran career diplomat, will become the eighth secretary-general in the world body's 60-year history. He was one of seven candidates vying for the UN chief and topped all four informal polls in the Security Council.

Ban is also the second Asian to take the position following Myammar's U Thant, who served from 1961 to 1971.

Source: Xinhua