(MENAFN) On Wednesday, Russia began its rotating leadership of the UN Security Council for the month of October, describing the schedule ahead as "very packed."

At a press briefing to mark the start of its term, Russian UN representative Vassily Nebenzia emphasized the focus on adhering to procedure and maintaining order.

He stated, "The Russian presidency is all about following the procedure, enforcing the efficiency, if needed, of course, and we will not hesitate to restore order in the chamber and demand that delegations respect it."

Nebenzia also stressed the importance of Russia’s close relationship with Africa.

He remarked, "We attach particular importance to the meeting with the AU (African Union) Peace and Security Council, and overall engagement with the African Union and African countries, both nationally and in our presidential capacity."

He further highlighted that this engagement "shows our commitment to strengthen even further our ties with African friends, which are historically very close."

Regarding key events planned for the month, Nebenzia shared that the Security Council will conduct an open debate on the Middle East on October 23.

He explained, "It is a mandated quarterly meeting, but we have plans to elevate its level. The unfolding catastrophe in Gaza will be in the focus of the Council's attention this day."

Additionally, the Russian presidency will observe United Nations Day on October 24 with an open discussion on the future of the UN.

Nebenzia described the event as a chance to affirm the organization's ongoing relevance, saying, "We plan to celebrate it in the council by an open debate, which will be an opportunity to reaffirm that the UN is not a relic of the past but the unique and indispensable, adaptable mechanism for addressing most pressing challenges of the present and the future."

He also mentioned that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is anticipated to provide a briefing to the Council.

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