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Russia Backs Annan's Bid for Second UN Term
Russia will support UN Secretary General Kofi Annan's bid for a second term, Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov said yesterday.
"Russia highly values Mr Annan's personal contribution to strengthening the role and the authority of the United Nations, and Russia will be ready to support Kofi Annan's candidacy for a second term as secretary general," Ivanov said following talks with Annan.
The 63-year-old Ghanaian's term expires on December 31. Support from Russia is key, since as a permanent member of the Security Council it can veto a nomination before it is sent on to the General Assembly for a final vote.
In the course of their meeting, Ivanov said, he and Annan discussed conflicts in the Middle East, the Balkans and Afghanistan and "ways to enhance the role of the United Nations."
Meeting Annan on Tuesday, President Vladimir Putin said the role of the UN should be strengthened.
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