1. The Republic of Korea will assume the presidency of the UN Security Council for the month of February 2013.

° The role of the President of the Security Council involves, based on the consultation with Council members, preparing the program of work, chairing meetings and conducting consultations, and other activities as the body’s representative and secretariat.

° On February 12, Foreign Minister Kim Sung-Hwan will preside over an open debate on the protection of civilians in armed conflicts. The meeting is expected to enhance the Security Council’s attention to the enforcement of international humanitarian and human rights laws in armed conflicts, boosting of humanitarian assistance, and protection of vulnerable groups.

2. Under the ROK’s presidency in February, the UN Security Council is scheduled to discuss Council’s agenda items including Yemen, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It may also discuss the situations in countries such as Mali and Syria depending upon the circumstances.

                         Spokesperson and Deputy Minister for Public Relations of MOFAT

* unofficial translation