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The UN Security Council is expected to recommend South Korean Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon, now the only remaining candidate, as the next UN secretary-general on Monday. Seven candidates had tossed their hats in the ring, but once Ban’s victory was becoming a sure bet, the others withdrew. After an expression of support for Ban from Singapore, which was expected to put up its own last-minute competitive candidate, there should be no further hurdles in Ban’s path.
There are worries from some corners that North Korea’s expressed plans for a nuclear test may influence the process, but the Foreign Ministry says there is nothing to worry about.
As the last man standing, Ban will be formally recommended by the Security Council to the General Assembly. If confirmed there around Oct. 16, he will start preparing to take office. On Tuesday, Ban will be in New York to meet with the representatives of the UN’s five regional blocs to discuss reforms and his ambitions for the world body. Ban will also at some point give an acceptance speech to the General Assembly. The term of office is five years, starting next January, for a maximum of two terms.
(englishnews@chosun.com )
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