The United Nations Children's Fund, or UNICEF, has appointed famed pianist Lang Lang as a goodwill ambassador. The 21-year-old virtuoso plans to focus on child survival and immunization issues in fulfilling his duties.

Lang Lang joins a long list of UNICEF goodwill ambassadors who travel the world on behalf of children, including American singer Harry Belafonte and Hong Kong film stars Jackie Chan and Leon Lai.

UNICEF's celebrity goodwill ambassadors all share a commitment to improving the lives of children worldwide. Each is selected because he or she has already demonstrated that commitment.

The organization chooses celebrities as its ambassadors because they are in a position to focus the world's eyes on the needs of children, both in their own countries and by visiting projects and programs overseas. They can use their talents and fame to advocate for children and support UNICEF's mission to ensure every child's right to health, education, equality and protection.

Lang Lang said that he is excited to begin doing what he can to help bring the world's attention to the pressing needs of children.

The young talent has played with all the major American orchestras and was the first Chinese pianist to be engaged by the Berlin Philharmonic.

(CRI May 21, 2004)