Germany’s former foreign minister Annalena Baerbock has been elected president of the U.N. General Assembly, winning 167 votes in a secret ballot requested by Russia.

She will begin her one-year term in September, succeeding Philemon Yang of Cameroon.

Baerbock’s nomination faced criticism from Russia and some in Germany after she replaced the original nominee, Helga Schmid.

Despite opposition, Baerbock emphasized unity under the theme “Better Together” and pledged to address global challenges, including war, climate change, and inequality, the Associated Press has reported.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres called for global cooperation amid growing crises and division.

Written by B.C. Begley