ZIMBABWE will be contesting for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York, US, today. The country has previously served two terms on the UNSC — for 1983-1984 and 1991-1992 terms.
WHO IS CONTESTING?
· For the Africa seat (one seat): Zimbabwe is the sole candidate endorsed by the African Union and SADC.
· For the Western European and Others Group (WEOG) seats (two seats): Portugal, Austria and Germany are contesting.
· Voting is by secret ballot; if no candidate reaches the two-thirds threshold in the first round, additional restricted ballots will be held.
WHAT WE KNOW FROM YESTERDAY’S CAMPAIGNS
· Zimbabwe’s delegation, led by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira, held:
· A reception for member states.
· A bilateral meeting with Austria’s Foreign Minister.
· Attended a UNSC meeting hosted by China.
· Receptions hosted by Portugal and the Czech Republic.
· Bilateral meetings with Portugal, the Philippines and Germany.
· Zimbabwe’s campaign pitch emphasised: peaceful world, respect for international law, peaceful dispute resolution, adherence to the UN Charter, multilateralism and sovereign equality of states.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
· Zimbabwe is optimistic and confident of securing the required two-thirds majority (at least 129 votes if all 193 members vote).
