Friday, April 1 2005 14:53 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

United Nations: The Group of four (G-4) comprising India, Germany, Japan and Brazil plans to bring a framework resolution in the UN General Assembly by summer this year, which would seek general approval for expansion of the Security Council but would mention no names.

It would require two-thirds majority of the members present and voting in the 191-General Assembly and call for expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories of the 15-member Council, including six in permanent category.

Group's second step would be to introduce names of the members for permanent category, the diplomats said.

However, it is yet unclear whether the names would be submitted as a slate or separately. Diplomats said it would depend whether the Africans are able to agree on their two candidates. This too would require two-thirds majority of members present and voting.

The grouping also needs a resolution to amend the Charter to give effect to decision on addition of new permanent members. That would require two-thirds majority of members present and voting, they said.

The group finally requires ratification of the amendment by two-thirds of member States, including all five permanent members, according to each country's own legislative procedures.