GENEVA - World Health Organisation chief Margaret Chan has accused "ruthless, devious" tobacco companies of bullying as she battles attempts to stimulate smoking in poor nations.
In a speech marking the fifth anniversary of an international convention on tobacco control, Ms Chan said she would not allow the tobacco industry to take part in talks on expanding the world's first public health treaty.
Ms Chan said the treaty backed by 168 countries allowed the agency and public health authorities to confront the "ruthless, devious, rich and powerful" industry.
She said tobacco use was increasing in many developing countries.
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