Latin America is the most unjust region in the world, Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS) Jose Miguel Insulza said in an interview published on Saturday.

"Income distribution levels (in Latin America) are the most unequal in the world and there are 200 million persons living below the poverty line," said Insulza in the interview with Spanish daily El Pais.

Economic and social problems in the region are a "nesting ground for populism of easy solutions," he said.

It is necessary to have a "greater disposition" in the region to share the benefits of economic development, said Insulza, who on May 26 took up his post as head of the OAS for the next five years.

The Chilean said Latin America needs efficient governments and institutions, as well as more consistent economic policies to overcome difficulties.

He said it was important that US President George W. Bush participate in the opening ceremony of the June 5-7 OAS General Assembly in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Insulza said he had a meeting on Tuesday with Bush, who voiced interest in the OAS.

The official vowed that the OAS will promote democracy, freedom of expression and the respect of minorities in the Western Hemisphere.

Source: Xinhua