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India assumes UNSC presidency for August, to focus on counter-terrorism

File photo of the UN building in New York (Photo: Rahul Kumar)

India has assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from August 1 and will focus on issues related to terrorism, maritime security and peacekeeping.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said: "As we take over UNSC Presidency for August, look forward to working productively with other members. India will always be a voice of moderation, an advocate of dialogue and a proponent of international law".

On Friday, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, TS Tirumurti gave an insight into New Delhi's agenda as it takes over the rotating presidency of the powerful UNSC. He said India will organise signature events in three key areas–maritime security, peacekeeping, and counterterrorism.

Tirumurti said: "Further, as a country that has been at the forefront of the fight against terrorism, we will continue to keep the spotlight on counter-terrorism. I would like to thank Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister for counting to guide our permanent mission especially during our stint during the Security Council".

India takes over the presidentship from France. Tirumurlti also thanked the French ambassador to the UN, Nicolas de Riviere, tweeting: "Thank you Ambassador @NDeRiviere, PR of France for steering the UN #SecurityCouncil for the month of July. India takes over the Presidency for August".

The French to India Emmanuel Lenain congratulated India, saying: "Delighted that India is today taking over #UNSC presidency from France. We are committed to working with India on strategic issues as maritime security, peacekeeping, and counter-terrorism, and upholding a rules-based, multilateral system to face today's many ongoing crises".

Russia ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev too congratulated India on assuming the presidency of the powerful body. Kudashev said: "Congratulations on #India's taking over the #UNSC presidency! Truly impressed with the agenda, which embraces pressing global issues including maritime security, peacekeeping & counter-terrorism. Expecting fruitful and effective work. Wishing many happy returns & all the success!"

Within the counter-terrorism framework, India will stress on the use of technology for the safety of UN Peacekeeping forces as well as ensure that justice is delivered to victims of terrorism.