LOC09:13
06:13 GMT
WASHINGTON, June 22 (KUNA) -- The Senate unanimously approved here late
Tuesday the nomination of CIA Director Leon Panetta as the next Secretary of
Defense.
Panetta, who was nominated by U.S. President Barack Obama in April to
replace Robert Gates, is expected to assume his new post in July.
Meanwhile, General David Petraeus, who was nominated by Obama to succeed
Panetta as the CIA chief, will testify before the Senate Select Intelligence
Committee on Thursday for a confirmation hearing.
Obama will address the nation on Wednesday during which he will unveil his
plan for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan. (end)
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