Pakistan seeks chairmanship of Group of 77

Islamabad, Sept 13: Pakistan is seeking the chairmanship of the Group of 77, the powerful body of developing countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America, a local media report said today.

Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) quoted Pakistani Ambassador to United Nations Munir Akram as saying that Pakistan has formally submitted its candidature for the post.

The Asian group, he said, would take a decision on Pakistan's bid in a week or so before a formal G-77 endorsement. So far, no other country is in contention.

If elected, Pakistan will take over the chairmanship from South Africa early next year, the agency added.

In 2004, Ambassador Akram headed the UN Economic and Social committee (ECOSOC).

Pakistan has twice held the G-77 chairmanship in the past.

UNI