Annan holds last press conference at UN : Iraq war is worst moment in tenure

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 12-20-2006 09:38

Kofi Annan has held his last media conference as secretary-general of the United Nations. At the meeting on Tuesday, he listed the worst moments of his tenure and current threats to international security.

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan smiles during his final press conference at the United Nations in New York, Dec. 19, 2006. (Xinhua Photo/Zhao Peng)

After ten years in the position, Kofi Annan will end his tenure on 31 December. He says it's not hard to identify the worst moments of the past decade.

Annan said, "The worst moment, of course, was the Iraq war which as an organization we couldn't stop and I really did everything I can to try to see if we can stop it. The other really painful one was the loss of our colleagues in Baghdad which was a very painful thing for all of us and for me personally."

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan (R Front) answers questions during his final press conference at the United Nations in New York, Dec. 19, 2006. (Xinhua Photo/Zhao Peng)

Annan says he is saddened that the dream to make the Middle East a "nuclear-free zone" may not be realized in the near future. He also warned that the dire situation in Iraq, should not be re-created.

Annan said, "You've noticed several governments in the region say they are going to explore nuclear facility for energy, they say, so what I am worried about is we may see competitive development."

The Secretary-General also spoke about the situation in the Darfur region of Sudan and says he has been working with his successor, Ban Ki-moon, to ensure the crisis finds a resolution soon.

Editor:Du Xiaodan