Ban Ki-moon sworn in as UN secy general

Diplomats from all regions of the world paid tribute to Kofi Annan, who steps down as secretary-general on Dec 31 after 10 yrs.

South Korea's Ban Ki-moon was sworn in on Thursday as the eighth secretary-general of the United Nations and will take the reins of the world body on January 1.

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General Assembly President Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa administered the oath of office to the former South Korean foreign minister, who swore to conduct himself solely in the interests of the United Nations and to refuse to accept instructions from any government or other authority.

Before the ceremony, diplomats from all regions of the world paid tribute to Kofi Annan, who steps down as secretary-general on December 31 after 10 years.