UN chief demands permanent African seat on security council
By Ezekiel David
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly advocated for addressing “historic injustices,” particularly the absence of a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council, deeming it “outrageous.”
He emphasised that the upcoming Summit of the Future at UN Headquarters presents a critical opportunity for global reform.
At the China-Africa Cooperation Summit, Guterres emphasised the difficulties experienced by numerous African nations, such as the debt burden, which hampers investments in sustainable development. He urged for changes in the global financial system to provide greater assistance to developing countries, especially in Africa, through expanding the lending capabilities of multilateral development banks and offering affordable financing.
Guterres recognised China’s important role as a trading partner with Africa. He emphasised the significance of South-South cooperation, particularly in technology and skills exchange. Guterres urged for stronger partnerships between China and Africa to promote progress in renewable energy, food systems, and digital connectivity, in line with the principles of the UN Charter.
The Secretary-General stressed the importance of addressing emerging global security threats and building on the achievements of African Union-led peace operations. He reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting a strong partnership between China and Africa that promotes peace, sustainable development, and human rights.
The Council at present is composed of 15 members, with five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US) and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. Algeria and Mozambique currently represent Africa as non-permanent members.
(Source: Nairametrics)
