Tuesday, September 13 2005 12:03 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Washington: Raising hopes for India, the United States yesterday (Sept 12, 2005) unveiled a set of criteria, including economic size, population, track record on non-proliferation and counter-terrorism, for countries aspiring a seat in expanded UN Security Council (UNSC).

The State Department came out with its vision of UNSC reforms saying, "Potential members must be supremely well qualified, based on factors such as commitment to democracy and human rights, economic size, population, military capacity, financial contributions to the UN, and record on counter-terrorism and non-proliferation".

While the overall 'geographic balance' of the Council is a consideration, effectiveness remains the benchmark for any reform, the State Department said.

"The United States is prepared to help lead the effort to strengthen and reform the UN. What follows are key issues the US has identified as priorities, as we work with the UN and other member states towards the goal of a strong, effective, and accountable organization," it said.

Management, Budget, and Administrative Reform Management reform is necessary to ensure that Member States receive the greatest benefit from resources and that UN personnel are held to the highest standard of ethical conduct and accountability.

All UN member states should unequivocally outlaw acts of international terrorism, and it is time to reach agreement on the Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).

Adopting the CCIT would be an important achievement in the UN's global effort to counter terrorism, the State Department said.

"Our proposals relate to three themes: accountability and integrity, improved effectiveness, and boosting the UN's relevance in the modern world," it said.

The Secretary General's authority and duty to waive immunity must be affirmed so that UN officials suspected of committing criminal activities can be fully investigated, and guilty individuals held accountable, it added.

It also stressed the urgent need for establishing a 'Peace Building Commission'.

"The US strongly supports the Secretary General's concept of a Peace Building Commission that would allow the UN to more effectively galvanize international efforts to help countries recover after conflict."

The US also supports the development goals in the Millennium Declaration. "President (George W) Bush has made it clear that expanding the circle of freedom and prosperity are fundamental interests of the United States," it said.

"The High-Level Event in September is an opportunity to renew our collective commitment to eradicate poverty and promote sustained economic development".