Russia assumes UN Security Council presidency for October

HAMILTON, Canada

Russia on Wednesday assumed the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council for October, describing its agenda as "very packed."

"The Russian presidency is all about following the procedure, enforcing the efficiency, if needed, of course, and we will not hesitate to restore order in the chamber and demand that delegations respect it," Russian UN envoy Vassily Nebenzia said at a news conference marking the start of the term.

Highlighting close ties with Africa as a priority, Nebenzia said: "We attach particular importance to the meeting with the AU (African Union) Peace and Security Council, and overall engagement with the African Union and African countries, both nationally and in our presidential capacity."

"This shows our commitment to strengthen even further our ties with African friends, which are historically very close," he said.

Nebenzia outlined Russia's signature events for the month, noting that the Council will hold an open debate on the Middle East on Oct. 23.

"It is a mandated quarterly meeting, but we have plans to elevate its level. The unfolding catastrophe in Gaza will be in the focus of the Council's attention this day," he said.

He added that the presidency will mark United Nations Day on Oct. 24 with an open debate on the UN's future.

"We plan to celebrate it in the council by an open debate, which will be an opportunity to reaffirm that the UN is not a relic of the past but the unique and indispensable, adaptable mechanism for addressing most pressing challenges of the present and the future," Nebenzia said, adding that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is expected to brief the Council.

The Russian envoy also announced an open debate on women, peace and security, scheduled for Oct. 6, again with the UN chief expected to brief members.

The Security Council presidency will pass to Sierra Leone in November.