[The Secretary-General was asked about the appointment yesterday of a new Special Representative of Iraq, Ashraf Jehangir Qazi, after his lunch with Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.]

[off mike] … three very good candidates. As it turned out, they were all from Asia –one from Thailand, one from India and one from Pakistan. It was a difficult choice, but I think we have selected the right man, who has experience with the region, has worked in the Middle East and has served in many positions. So I think he's going to do a great job.

QUESTION: He has a very hard act to follow in Mr. de Mello.

SECRETARY-GENERAL: Oh, absolutely. de Mello was unique, but each individual has to do it his own way and I'm sure he will do it his way. And Sergio was very special but I'm sure Mr. Qazi will do it his own way.

QUESTION: How can you [inaudible] about his safety?

SECRETARY-GENERAL: Well, this is something that we need to take precautions [on]. We don't live in a risk-free environment, but the risk has to be managed.

Thank you.