Germany took over the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council for a month, a “period full of events”, according to Berlin’s UN Ambassador, Mr Peter Wittig.
“There is a broad range of crises and conflicts under way in the world that will require our diplomatic talents. I’m sure Germany can help ensure the Security Council will provide global security,” Mr Wittig said.
Germany, which abstained from a Council vote on authorising NATO military operations in Libya, wants to play a post-conflict role.
“We want to prevent a void in Libya, but it is much too early to speak of specific missions or work distribution,” he said.
Germany is replacing Gabon at the head of the Council.