(WASHINGTON, DC) - Today, the United Nations General Assembly elected Saudi Arabia to serve as a non-permanent member on the Security Council. The two-year term will begin on January 1, 2014. 

“It is a defining moment in the Kingdom’s history. As one of the first founding members of the United Nations, our election is much to rejoice over,” said Saudi Ambassador to the United Nations Abdallah Al-Mouallimi. “We welcome the positive shift, as well as the challenges, of being part of the Security Council body.”

This is the first time Saudi Arabia has been elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. This membership reflects the Kingdom’s commitment towards peace and security around world.

Chad, Chile, Lithuania and Nigeria also were elected to serve on the Council. Under the UN Charter, the 15-member Security Council has primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security.