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The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSARG) extends its heartiest congratulations to Dr Margaret Chan for her successful re-election to serve a second term in office as Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). The 65th World Health Assembly made the appointment this afternoon (May 23, Geneva time), following nomination by the WHO's Executive Board in January this year.
The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, commended Dr Chan for her outstanding performance and commitment in promoting public health at the international arena. She is also a highly influential official in this regard.
"Dr Chan was re-elected with overwhelming support, which reflects the wide recognition of her contributions by Member States of the WHO. We are extremely proud to see an officer from Hong Kong continuing to play a leading role in serving the global community," said Mr Tsang.
The Secretary for Food and Health, Dr York Chow, who is in Geneva attending the 65th World Health Assembly as a member of the Chinese delegation, said Dr Chan had an illustrious track record of achievements on a wide range of global health issues.
"During Dr Chan's first term in office, we have seen WHO step up international collaboration and partnership, making the world better prepared to prevent and control diseases and other health threats. She has made progress in a variety of dimensions to enable more people around the world to attain the highest possible level of health. The HKSARG will continue to work closely with the WHO to improve global health," said Dr Chow.
Dr Chan has worked in the Hong Kong civil service for 25 years before retiring as Director of Health in 2003. She subsequently joined the WHO and was first appointed to the post of Director-General of the WHO in 2006. Upon re-election, Dr Chan's new term will begin on July 1, 2012 and continue until June 30, 2017.
Ends/Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Issued at HKT 22:12
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