Brazil assumes presidency of UN Security Council

Brazil on Tuesday assumed the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council for a period of one month.

In February, the Security Council is expected to discuss issues concerning Haiti, the Middle East, Sudan, Guinea-Bissau, East Timor, Somalia, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Kosovo, according to Brazil's Foreign Ministry.

On Feb. 11, Brazil will host a debate on the theme "the Interdependence Between Security and Development in Dealing with Conflict and Post-Conflict Situations."

Debates on specific aspects of peacekeeping operations are also expected to take place, including the protection of civilians, women and children in armed conflicts.

The council presidency rotates monthly among its 15 members, based on alphabetical order of their names in English.

(Published by People's Daily Online - February 2, 2011)