Statement
Statement by Shashi Tharoor
July 24, 2006
following first informal poll in Security Council
Following the results of the first straw poll in the Security Council that showed Shashi Tharoor, with 10 votes, come a close second to South Korean Foreign Minister Ban Ki-Moon (with 12), the Indian candidate issued the following statement:
"Considering I've entered the race just a month ago and am the only candidate who hasn't visited all 15 capitals, I'm gratified to have received such a broad base of support in the Council. I have the highest personal regard for Mr Ban but believe I offer a genuine alternative, of a candidate from the South who can articulate a positive vision for a UN of the 21st century -- and the skills and experience of 28 years to bring about meaningful change to realise that vision. I believe this result marks a good beginning on which I hope to build in subsequent ballots."
