Jean-Pierre Lafon, France's ambassador to China, was named Thursday secretary general of French Foreign Ministry.

This nomination, proposed by French Foreign Minister Michel Barnier, will go into effect from August 30, 2004.

He is to replace Hubert Colin de Verdiere, who was named France's ambassador to Algeria.

The nomination is a mark of esteem for Lafon and of France's consideration for foreign affairs, according to a senior official of the French Foreign Ministry, who demanded anonymity.

M. Philippe Guelluy, who is currently France's ambassador to Canada, is expected to replace Lafon, the same source told Xinhua.

Source: Xinhua