Lankan nominated for UN Secy General's post

Dhanapala is expected to compete against two other Asian rivals, from Thailand and South Korea.

Sri Lanka has nominated its senior diplomat, Jayantha Dhanapala, for the post of UN Secretary General, which will fall vacant after the retirement of incumbent Kofi Annan at the end of this year.

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"Sri Lanka is a country traditionally following a moderate stance in international affairs and has been a consensus builder. Coming from a small country, we think we fit the profile as the UN tradition is to take (the lead) from a small country.

Big countries may have their own big agenda," Dhanapala, who has 36 years of experience in international relations, said.

According to UN convention, it is Asia's turn to lead the august body and for the moment, Dhanapala is expected to compete against two other Asian rivals, from Thailand and South Korea.