Washington, Nov. 18: Former Democratic presidential contender and New York’s junior Senator Hillary Clinton is reportedly planning to accept the job of US Secretary of State offered by Presidential-elect Barack Obama, the Guardian has learned.

Obama's advisers have begun looking into Bill Clinton''s foundation, which distributes millions of dollars to Africa to help with development, to ensure there is no conflict of interest. But Democrats believe the vetting will be straightforward.

Clinton would be well placed to become the country's dominant voice in foreign affairs, replacing Condoleezza Rice.

Since being elected Senator, she has specialised in foreign affairs and defence. Although she supported the war in Iraq, she and Obama basically agree on a withdrawal of American troops.

Clinton, who still harbours hopes of a future presidential run, had to weigh up whether she would be better placed by staying in the Senate, which offers a platform for life, or making the more uncertain career move to the State Department. (ANI)