EU Presidency Statement on the appointment of H.E. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Mr Ban Ki-moon as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations

Press release 416/2006
13 October 2006

The Presidency of the European Union warmly welcomes the appointment of Mr Ban Ki-moon as the new Secretary-General of the United Nations.

The Presidency is confident that Mr Ban's proven capabilities as well as his strong experience and knowledge give him the qualifications required to successfully run the organization.

The Presidency underlines the importance of effective multilateralism and the role of the United Nations. The Presidency looks forward to close collaboration with Mr Ban in furthering peace and security, development and human rights, and gives its full support to Mr Ban in his efforts to reform the UN. The Presidency regards the reform as a key priority in enhancing the capacity and capability of the world organization to effectively carry on its enormously important work in the 21st century.