Ban: The U.N. secretary-general doesn’t represent his or her native country. As the secretary-general, I will have great interest in the issue and work as a facilitator in solving the problem. But I will not be partial.
Although there are some difficulties now, South and North Korea are moving toward reconciliation, cooperation and exchanges. The North will eventually open up and reform itself through more cooperation and exchanges with the South. Eventually, this will help create an environment for reunification between the two Koreas.
After 50 years, the alliance is [in transition]. Given Korea’s current position, there could be misunderstanding and conflicts. South Korea has changed greatly over the past 50 years, much faster than the U.S. has. But the current conflicts will pave the way for a more mutually beneficial and equal alliance.
Instead of being stuck in between, South Korea can positively play the role of a bridge. Korea has an advantage. In political, economic and social areas, South Korea is as advanced as developed nations. At the same time, South Korea can understand the pains and difficulties of developing nations because she has risen by overcoming those.
Reforming the U.N. is most important. First, I will reform the Secretariat. Unfortunately, it has been criticized for being inefficient and being involved in corruption. I will raise its morale and professionalism, while instilling the sense of ownership among its staff. I will introduce a system where its work can be objectively evaluated. Second, I will try to reduce discord among U.N. members [especially] between developing and developed countries. I will play the role of a harmonizer.
Having worked as a diplomat for 37 years … I have accumulated enough experience. Surrounded by big powers like the U.S., China, Japan and Russia, South Korea has long had to coordinate the interests [of different nations] in resolving such issues as North Korea’s nuclear program.
Of all candidate countries, South Korea is the only OECD member. Our economy is the world’s 11th largest and it is a donor country. This criticism is based on either sheer misunderstanding or an intention to discredit me. Among OECD members, South Korea donates least and is under pressure to increase aid to developing nations. Even before I declared my candidacy, South Korea decided to increase its aid. Our aid doesn’t target certain countries.
She is working in Nairobi, Kenya. She gives me a lot of information about the field and that helps. We were worried about a conflict of interest, but experts say she can keep her job even if I am elected.
When I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a diplomat. That’s why I studied diplomacy at the Seoul National University. I hoped to become the foreign minister, but never thought about becoming the top U.N. officer. Diplomacy is a tough job. It requires dedication to the public good, and a sense of mission for mankind.
