RP elected chair of key UN body

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines was elected last week to chair a United Nations special committee that examines proposals to strengthen its role in maintaining peace and security between member states, the Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York said yesterday.

Deputy Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN Carlos Sorreta will chair the 2010 Session of the Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization.

Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN Hilario Davide Jr. said the special committee was formed based on the 1975 proposal of the late Philippine Foreign Minister Carlos P. Romulo.

“The Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations is a lasting legacy that the Philippines and General Romulo has given to the United Nations,” Davide said. “It is significant that the Philippines will chair this key United Nations body as it observes its 35th year.”

Davide said Romulo always gave emphasis to the rule of law and maintenance of peace and security. On Nov. 15, 1982, the UN General Assembly passed GA resolution 37/10 adopting the Manila declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes.

Romulo concluded his work in the UN during the 1983 session of the special committee.