The United Nations has selected Bollywood actress and former Miss World Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as the international goodwill ambassador for the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).

UNAIDS made the announcement Monday on the eve of the 67th United Nations General Assembly in New York. The Indian actress, touted as one of the most beautiful women in the world, will assist the U.N. project in eliminating new HIV infections among children.

"I strongly believe that every baby should be born free from HIV. And I wish that every woman living with HIV stays healthy and has access to treatment. I promise that with UNAIDS, I will do my utmost to make this happen," Aishwarya said.

The 38-year-old actress, who is married to Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan, had her first child last year.

"I am honored to accept this appointment. Spreading awareness on health issues, especially those related to women and children have always been a priority for me. And now, as a new mother, I can personally relate to this - the joys and concerns of every mother and the hopes that we have for our children,” she said.

The Pink Panther 2 actress will promote the cause in 22 countries in Asia, including India, and Africa which account for more than 90 percent of new HIV infections among children.

She has several hit Hindi movies to her credit and has also worked in Hollywood films such as "The Pink Panther 2." A regular at the Cannes film festival, Bachchan was crowned Miss World in 1994 and is considered the most beautiful woman to ever win the crown.

"Mrs Rai Bachchan is respected and admired by millions of people around the world. Through her work in raising awareness of the issues and advocating for increased access to services Mrs Rai Bachchan will be instrumental in helping to ensure that no more babies are born with HIV and that their mothers stay alive and healthy," said Michel Sidibé, Executive Director of UNAIDS in a statement.

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