The interview was recorded at the New York City,on November 11, 1997. The Interviewer was Jean Krasno. Ambassador João Clemente Baena Soares became the 6th Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS) on June 20, 1984. An experienced diplomat, he was General Secretary of the Ministry of External Relations of Brazil when unanimously elected by the OAS's General Assembly to become Secretary General. He was elected for a period of five years with the possibility of reelection to a second term. João Clemente Baena Soares brought more than 31 years of experience in diplomatic service to his country to the OAS. This experience was mostly in the external relations and foreign affairs areas of the Brazilian government. He was born in Belem do Pará on May 14, 1931 and has a broad educational background in politics and law. João Clemente Baena Soares is married and has three sons. He has received awards from countries worldwide for his contributions to International Relations.