BAN DISCUSSES UN-US COOPERATION WITH NEW PRESIDENT, SECRETARY OF STATE

BAN DISCUSSES UN-US COOPERATION WITH NEW PRESIDENT, SECRETARY OF STATE
New York, Jan 23 2009 6:10PM
In separate telephone conversations with the new United States President and Secretary of State, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon discussed a range of issues, including United Nations reform, climate change and the Darfur peace process.

During his talks with President Barack Obama, who took office on Tuesday, this afternoon, Mr. Ban underscored the importance of the US-UN partnership, emphasizing the need for collaboration on matters such as the global economic crisis, food security and the resolution of regional crisis, especially those in Africa and the Middle East.

The two leaders also conferred on continued efforts to reform the UN, as well as the Organization's need for political and financial support. The Secretary-General noted that he was encouraged by Mr. Obama's assurance of support.

Later on in the day, Mr. Ban spoke with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who stressed the importance of cooperation in the Middle East, Afghanistan and Iraq, and also in UN reform and budgetary issues.

Earlier this week, he welcomed Mr. Obama's election "with great optimism," noting that the UN and US have many common goals.

"Together, United States of America and the United Nations can look forward to a new era of strong and effective partnership, delivering the results and the change we need," he said in a statement.
Jan 23 2009 6:10PM
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