Trump to pick Exxon Chief US Secretary of State

President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed the chief executive of Exxon Mobil, Rex Tillerson, as his choice for US secretary of state.

Mr. Trump praised Mr. Tillerson, 64, in a statement as among the "most accomplished business leaders and international dealmakers" in the world.

Mr. Tillerson is said to have a good relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, alarming both Democrats and some Republicans.

The nomination needs Senate approval.

The secretary of state is in effect the most senior US diplomat, responsible for enacting the government's foreign policy.

"Rex Tillerson's career is the embodiment of the American dream," Mr. Trump said.

"His tenacity, broad experience and deep understanding of geopolitics make him an excellent choice for Secretary of State."

Mr. Tillerson said he was "honoured" by the nomination, adding that he shared Mr. Trump's "vision for restoring the credibility of the United States' foreign relations and advancing our country's national security".

SOURCE: BBC News