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Bolton to work for stronger UN
01/08/2005 17:06 - (SA)
Washington - John Bolton, the United States' controversial new UN ambassador, pledged on Monday to work for a "stronger, more effective" United Nations while promoting US interests and values at the world body.
Bolton, 56, said he would work tirelessly to advance the agenda of President George W Bush, who appointed him to the post by decree after his confirmation vote in the US senate was blocked for months.
"We seek a stronger more effective organisation, true to the ideals of its founders, and agile enough to act in the 21st century," Bolton said in a joint appearance with Bush at the White House.
"It will be a distinct privilege to be an advocate for America's values and interests at the UN and, in the words of the UN Charter, to help maintain international peace and security," he said.
Democrats have accused Bolton, former undersecretary of state for arms control, of unabashed hostility to the United Nations, of bending intelligence to fit his views and abusing staff.
The normal senate confirmation of his nomination had been stalled since March amid rounds of partisan haggling. Bush waited until the senate adjourned for summer on Friday and used his powers to push Bolton through as a "recess appointment".
- AFP
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