United Nations

NEW YORK, 6 August (UN Headquarters) -- This statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:
 

 The Secretary-General today named Giandomenico Picco as his Personal Representative for the United Nations Year of Dialogue among Civilizations.

 On 4 November 1998, the General Assembly proclaimed the year 2001 as the United Nations Year of Dialogue among Civilizations, and invited governments and the United Nations system to plan programmes to promote the concept.

 Today's appointment underlines the importance which the Secretary-General attaches to this United Nations Year and the preparations leading to it.  Mr. Picco will launch, on behalf of the Secretary-General, initiatives aimed at furthering the dialogue among civilizations.  These efforts will be pursued in coordination with other parts of the United Nations system and with Member States.

 Mr. Picco had a distinguished career with the United Nations from 1973-1992, serving most recently as Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs.  Since 1994, he has been the Chief Executive Officer of GDP Associates, an international consulting firm.

 He is a regular lecturer at conferences and universities, and the author of numerous publications on foreign affairs.  He has been the recipient of numerous honorary degrees and distinctions, including awards from five governments for his role in the release of western hostages from Lebanon.