Ankara: Denmark on Monday assumed the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council for August, pledging to prioritize women, peace and security, and climate peace and security.
According to Anadolu Agency, Denmark's Ambassador to the UN, Christina Markus Lassen, emphasized the escalating conflicts, increasing humanitarian suffering, rising geopolitical tensions, and the elusive nature of political solutions across various global regions. During a news conference outlining the council's program of work for the month, Lassen highlighted concerns related to Ukraine, Sudan, the Middle East, and the Gulf, cautioning against potential further escalations.
Lassen stated that Denmark's presidency would focus on addressing conflicts and their impact on food security, referencing developments in the Strait of Hormuz, Ukraine, and the Palestinian territories. She expressed concerns regarding the Strait of Hormuz and its implications for freedom of navigation, which she described as problematic, warning of potential consequences for food security and other essential products.
Denmark plans to host a high-level open debate on August 25, focusing on conflict and hunger, with the aim of strengthening the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2417, which addresses the link between armed conflict and hunger. Lassen noted the frequent correlation between conflict and hunger across the council's agenda.
The Security Council's activities this month will also include an annual debate on working methods scheduled for August 19, along with mandated meetings covering South Sudan, Yemen, Libya, the occupied Palestinian territories, North Korea, Syria, and counterterrorism efforts.
Lassen expressed Denmark's intent to closely monitor developments in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip, expressing hope for advancements in the implementation of Resolution 2803. When questioned about the upcoming straw poll to assess candidates for the position of UN Secretary-General, she mentioned that it is planned for August 21, without the expectation of color-coded ballots in this round.
The presidency of the UN Security Council will transition to France in September.