Greece has assumed the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for October, unveiling a programme focused on the protection of children in armed conflict, maritime security, emerging technologies, the Middle East and the role of women in peacebuilding.

Speaking at the UN headquarters in New York, Greece's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Aglaia Balta, said Athens would conduct the Council's work in accordance with the UN Charter, international law, the Council's rules of procedure and its agreed working methods.

High-level meetings scheduled

Balta announced that the presidency's signature event will be a high-level meeting on Children and Armed Conflict on 26 October, to be chaired by Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis.

A second high-level meeting, focusing on Maritime Security, Emerging Technologies, and International Peace and Security, is scheduled for 29 October under the chairmanship of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

In addition, the Council will hold open debates on the Middle East on 15 October and Women, Peace and Security on 27 October.

Balta also said an informal joint seminar between the UN Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council will take place on 21 and 22 October to strengthen cooperation on regional peace and security issues.

Selection process for next UN secretary-general

Among the Council's key responsibilities this month will be the preliminary selection process for the next UN Secretary-General, with informal consultations expected to begin as part of the appointment procedure.

The Security Council consists of 15 members—five permanent members with veto power (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States) and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.

The presidency of the Security Council rotates monthly among its members in alphabetical order.(ILKHA)