France, July 24 -- Sall was among six candidates who set out their vision for the UN during a restrained debate in New York on Thursday, one week before the formal selection process begins.

The candidates agreed that the next secretary-general would need to rebuild the credibility of an organisation facing deep financial pressures, growing geopolitical divisions and criticism over its response to conflicts around the world.

Sall said he would use his first 100 days in office "to restore trust and put the UN on a path to become more agile, more effective and more ready to listen".

The former Senegalese leader promised an organisation able to "listen, act and bring people together", placing effectiveness and dialogue at the heart of his ...