For the UN Security Council – Charles Michel: "We are ready!"
On 23 October 2015, Belgium officially launched its campaign for becoming a Non-Permanent Member of the Security Council. The campaign was intensive and diplomatic contacts were established at all levels to highlight the benefits of the Belgian candidacy.
Our campaign received widespread support. I would like to particularly thank our diplomatic network, headed by Mr. Didier Reynders, for the work done in the 86 countries in which we are represented.
Since taking office, the Prime Minister has visited 48 countries and had more than 200 bilateral talks. Details: www.premier.be.
At each of these meetings, the Prime Minister explained Belgium’s geopolitical views. We believe multilateralism is the foundation for facing the current international challenges: the fight against terrorism, global warming, migration,...
The prime Minister recently had a meeting with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, where he pointed to the benefits of the Belgian candidacy.
It is in our DNA to build bridges and find solutions that satisfy all parties. It is in this spirit that we want to find constructive and innovative solutions to reduce tensions in a number of current international issues, such as the Iranian nuclear issue, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the tensions between Russia and the West, to name but a few.
Our actions will focus on promoting peace, defending human rights, supporting sustainable development and establishing consensus.
Belgium has always been involved in peacekeeping operations by actively participating with troops on the ground. We have been actively involved in preventing crimes against humanity and protecting civilians during conflicts, especially women and children.
Combating poverty, reducing social inequalities, promoting the emancipation of women, managing natural resources, tackling climate change, promoting universal health care, these are all objectives that should help to promote peace in the world.
Our goal for the United Nations must be to continuously build up an effective organisation that is committed to the common interests of the Member States. The key to success lies in the ability to listen actively, the art of the compromise and the power of beliefs to ratify these decisions.
Through its transparent and constructive attitude, our country is making progress that will benefit everyone. After New York, Brussels is the second diplomatic capital in the world. Our international anchoring and experience mean that we are ready to take on these responsibilities. Building a consensus and striving for peace.
The vote will start on Friday 8 June at 10 AM local time. Minister Didier Reynders will represent Belgium at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
