Mozambique assumes UN Security Council presidency for May

By Serife Cetin

Mozambique pledged Wednesday to prioritize the protection of civilians as it assumed the presidency of the UN Security Council for May.

Mozambique's UN envoy Pedro Comissario Afonso said at a news conference that several issues would be addressed throughout the month, including the protection of civilians, the effect of conflicts on women and children, and conflicts worldwide.

On the Gaza Strip, Afonso noted his country supports an immediate cease-fire and as the current president of the General Assembly, Mozambique will make efforts in that direction.

Afonso indicated that if a cease-fire cannot be achieved, Mozambique would work on a new resolution.

Mozambique takes control of the presidency from Malta.

South Korea will next assume the presidency.

*Writing by Merve Aydogan in Canada