Margaret Chan says to work tirelessly for world health

Source: Xinhuanet | 11-09-2006 08:57

GENEVA, Nov. 8 (Xinhua) -- Dr. Margaret Chan, the Chinese who has won the election for the new head of the World Health Organization (WHO), said here on Wednesday that she would work " tirelessly" for world health.

"You can be sure that I will work tirelessly and I will open my ears to all to listen to all voices," Chan told the 34 members of the WHO Executive Board, which had finally nominated her as the new WHO director-general.

According to the WHO's election procedures, Chan's nomination has yet to be approved by the decision-making World Health Assembly, which will meet on Thursday with the participation of all 193 WHO member states.

Chan said that if her nomination was confirmed on Thursday, she would take forward the legacy of former WHO Director-General Lee Jong-wook, who died suddenly in May, and his predecessors.

"I have the commitment, the passion and ability to serve this organization, and I have the determination to achiever results for health," Chan said.

Selected out of a total of 11 candidates from different regions, Chan said she was looking forward to cooperate with her competitors in the election to make the world a healthy place. Many of the candidates were Chan's colleagues in the WHO.

"I'm deeply honored by your confidence, and this is a moment of reflection and respect," she said.

Editor:Wang Ping