France takes over the presidency of the UN Security Council for April, the country’s foreign ministry announced on Tuesday.
The ministry’s statement emphasised France’s readiness to work with its partners to ensure the Council’s ability to respond to current challenges and conflicts.
“In the face of today’s challenges, the guiding principle of our Presidency will be to ensure that multilateral dialogue prevails over the balance of power,” it said.
It reiterated that France’s efforts will be focused primarily on achieving a “just and lasting” peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
A ministerial meeting will be held later this month on the situation in the Middle East.
France will also pay “special attention” to the situation around Africa’s Great Lakes, as well as the countries of Sudan and South Sudan and the Caribbean nation of Haiti.
“France’s presidency will also take the initiative to hold meetings focused on peacekeeping operations and the protection of humanitarian workers – two key commitments to support those who provide aid to vulnerable populations on the ground,” the statement added.
It also reiterates that France will continue to advocate for reforms in the council to make it more representative for “effective” multilateral work.
“Throughout its presidency, France’s sole guiding principle will be its attachment to multilateralism, the UN system, and respect for international law in the maintenance of international peace and security,” it added.
France has replaced Denmark as chair of the Security Council and will hand over the presidency to Greece in May.
