UK Supports Annan's Bid for Second Term

The British High Commission has announced that the UK fully supports Kofi Annan's bid for a second term as Secretary-General of the United Nations. Mr Annan received the Prime Minister's personal endorsement at talks at 10 Downing Street last Thursday.

The Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw, who met Mr Annan for dinner said: "During his first term in office, Kofi Annan has enhanced the standing of the UN with his integrity, moral authority professionalism and competence. A second term as UN Secretary-General would enable him to drive forward his reform and modernisation programme for the UN. We fully share his objectives."

Mr Annan was on an official visit to the UK from 19-22 June 2001. The UN Security Council will vote on whether to recommend his reappointment to the General Assembly on Wednesday 27 June 2001.