By LIANG TAO, CRI Correspondent
 
The World Health Organization Executive Board has nominated Hong Kong's former Director of Health Margaret Chan for the post of Director-General.

The World Health Assembly will meet on Thursday to appoint the next Director-General.

Dr Chan said she is grateful for the support of the Central Government and Hong Kong people, adding she will visit Hong Kong soon.

She told executive board members the post bears great responsibility that she will not take lightly.

She said she has the commitment, the passion and the humility to serve the member states of this great organization. She also has the determination to achieve results for health.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang said Dr Chan's success, the first time a Chinese citizen has been nominated for a key United Nations post, is an honour for Hong Kong people.

He said her experience in handling epidemic outbreaks and medical sector reform will contribute to the WHO's work, and bring the city's ties with the organization closer.

Noting Dr Chan got 24 votes from the WHO Executive Board, which is composed of 34 members, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow said this shows the success of Dr Chan's election campaign, the Central Government's support and the strength of the Foreign Affairs and Health Ministries.