GENEVA

Russia’s Tatiana Valovaya on Friday was appointed as the director-general of UN Office at Geneva.

“United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced today the appointment of Tatiana Valovaya of the Russian Federation as Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva,” a statement by the UN said.

Valovaya will succeed Denmark’s Michael Moller, who was on duty since 2013, and will become the first female director-general of the UN.

“Ms. Valovaya brings to the position over 35 years of extensive experience in journalism, diplomacy and government service,” it added.

Valovaya worked for The Economic Gazette between 1983-1989, before beginning her career with Russian government where she served in “various capacities”.

“I warmly congratulate her on becoming the first woman Director-General of United Nations Geneva,” Moller also said in a statement, welcoming Valovaya’s appointment.

*Writing by Sena Guler