UNIS/BIO/829
18 October 2007
New Permanent Representative of Belgium Presents Credentials
VIENNA, 18 October (UN Information Service) -- The new Permanent Representative of Belgium to the United Nations (Vienna), Cristina Funes-Noppen, presented her credentials today to Antonio Maria Costa, Director-General, United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV).
Prior to her current appointment, Ms. Funes-Noppen was serving as Ambassador in Nairobi, Kenya, Permanent Representative to United Nations at Nairobi and Member of the International Advisory Committee on Somalia (since 2005).
Ms. Funes-Noppen has served in many capacities in the course of her career, including as: Ambassador in Rabat, Morocco (2002 - 05), Special Commissioner for Development Cooperation (2000 - 02), Ambassador in Bangkok, Thailand (1997 - 2000), Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Brussels, responsible for United Nations, Human Rights and Disarmament desks (1995 - 97), Ambassador in New Delhi, India (1991 - 95), Ambassador in Nairobi, Kenya, and Permanent Representative to United Nations at Nairobi (1988 - 1991), Ambassador in Lusaka, Zambia (1985 - 87) and First Secretary, Permanent Representation to United Nations at Geneva (1982 - 85).
Ms. Funes-Noppen holds a Master's degree in Political Science and Diplomatic Science from ULB Belgium and a degree in Indian Culture from the Jamia Milia College in Delhi, India.
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