Cowen to give first speech to Security Council today

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Cowen, will deliver his first speech to the UN Security Council in New York today after Ireland assumed the role of presidency yesterday.

Brian Cowen is due to address the UN Security Council today

The keynote speech is expected to focus on the fight against international terrorism and the growing crisis in Afghanistan.

Mr Cowen held talks last night with UN Secretary-General Mr Kofi Annan and other top UN officials. The crisis caused by the September 11th attacks on the US was the main subject of the talks.

Earlier, Irish ambassador to the UN Mr Richard Ryan became president of the Security Council for the month of October.

The presidency of the Council rotates monthly and comes at a time when international tensions are raised following last month’s attacks on the US.

Mr Cowen said at the weekend Ireland will use its presidency to ensure compliance with UN resolutions and will scrutinise any military action taken in response to the attacks.

The Security Council responsibility, under the UN Charter, is primarily for the maintenance of international peace and security. Its remit covers the power to issue ceasefire directives and decisions on enforcement measures such as economic sanctions or military action against members who refuse to comply with UN directives or resolutions.

The council can also send UN peacekeeping forces to help reduce tensions in troubled areas, keep opposing forces apart and create conditions of calm in which settlements may be sought.

The council has 15 members - five permanent members and 10 elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms.