NEW YORK (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp Chief Executive Steve Ballmer said on Tuesday he saw "tremendous opportunities" for the software maker to post strong growth after a positive showing this year for its Windows Vista operating system and "Halo 3" video game.

"This year and beyond, we see tremendous opportunities for more strong growth and solid financial returns both from our current businesses and through expansion into new markets," Ballmer said, according to a statement on the company's annual shareholder meeting.

Microsoft shareholders approved 10 directors to the board, including eight independent members.

(Reporting by Michele Gershberg, editing by Maureen Bavdek)
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Photo:
Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Steve Ballmer gestures as he delivers a speech in Zurich October 4, 2007. REUTERS/Christian Hartmann