Mr. Ban is good at seeing disconnections - and fixing them.

Through much of his talk, Mr. Ban tried a light touch.

Mr. Ban takes over at a difficult time.

But the biggest challenge Mr. Ban may face as secretary general could be his own personality.

It was around this time that Mr. Ban discovered him.

Mr. Ban also raised the issue directly with the president last week.

"I was totally out of work for the first time in my life," Mr. Ban said.

But whether there is an interesting historical footnote here, Mr. Ban cannot say.

"Mr. Ban shows our values should be kept for future generations."

Mr. Ban said that what he saw moved him.