Security Council formally nominates Guterres

UNITED NATIONS -- Portugal's former prime minister Antonio Guterres, who was nominated formally Thursday to be the next U.N. secretary-general, said he faces "huge challenges" and hopes to see unity and consensus during his term.

Security Council President Vitaly Churkin, Russia's U.N. ambassador, said members approved a resolution by acclamation recommending Guterres for a five-year term during a closed-door meeting.

The council's recommendation goes to the U.N.'s 193-member General Assembly for formal approval, which is virtually certain.

The body is expected to vote on Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's successor next week. Ban's second five-year term ends Dec. 31.

Speaking at the Foreign Ministry in Lisbon, Guterres said he hoped the consensus vote in the council, which has been deeply divided over Syria and many other issues, would turn out to be symbolic, bringing "swift decisions which the troubled world we live in demands."

Ban told reporters in Rome he considers Guterres "a superb choice."

He praised his "deep compassion" as U.N. refugee chief for 10 years "for the millions of people who have been forced from their homes," as well as "his wide knowledge of world affairs and his lively intellect."