Tuesday, March 24, 2009

3 News: - Clark in line for top UN job (UNDP)



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Former Prime Minister Helen Ms Clark is in the running for a top United Nations job.

Two weeks ago 3 News reported she was on a short-list of three for the post of “Director Of The UN’s Development Programme” – the number three spot in the UN’s hierarchy.

An appointment is expected in the next month but Prime Minister John Key says he has heard nothing yet – just rumours.

“It is a decision for Ban Ki Moon,” says Mr Key, referring to the UN’s Secretary General, who is also a Korean.

Ms Clark is said to have the support of the Koreans, after meeting with their President last week, and they are lobbying the Secretary General for her appointment.

Ms Clark has remained tight-lipped about the possibility.

“There’s a process to follow and it’s competitive,” she says.

Mr Key is graciously admitting his former rival is talented and has international support.

“She is obviously held in high regard and is a woman with many talents,” he says.

One of those in the final three is an American but it is understood the American administration has no objections to Ms Clark taking the role – something that is regarded as crucial.

Ms Clark is currently in Germany and speaking to an international conference.

But all the diplomatic circles are buzzing that Ms Clark is the favoured candidate and an announcement is not far off.

For now though – Ms Clark, the Labour Party and even Mr Key do not want to blow her trumpet too soon.

3 News

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