Francophonie urges Security Council role
2012-10-14 20:39
Kinshasa - Leaders of French-speaking nations called on Sunday for an overhaul of the UN Security Council that would give African nations some form of permanent representation.
Speaking at the end of the 14th Francophonie summit, held in Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa, participants said Africa - with its one billion people - needed a stronger voice in international dialogue.
"We reiterate our support for the continuation of the reform of global governance for a balanced, multilateral system guaranteeing a permanent and fair representation for Africa in decision-making bodies," summit heads said in their closing statement.
"The needed reform of the United Nations Security Council should give all African nations their place."
Leaders at the summit did not elaborate on exactly what kind of representation they sought for African nations.
The Security Council currently has five permanent members - the United States, China, Russia, Britain and France.
Dozens of African nations use French as an official language.
