GENEVA, Feb 8 (Reuters) - France's ambassador for HIV/AIDS and communicable diseases, Michel Kazatchkine, was selected on Thursday to lead a multi-billion-dollar fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.

The Global Fund board, which has committed $7 billion in grants to 136 countries since its launch five years ago, said it had chosen Kazatchkine to succeed Richard Feachem because of his experience as a physician and global health expert.

"He has the right blend of skills and experience needed to manage this unique financial institution," board chairwoman Carol Jacobs said.

AlertNet news is provided by