Mr. Speaker, Canada's long and proud history of supporting international peace and security was again honoured on October 8, 1998 with our election to a two year term on the United Nations Security Council.
Since taking its seat on January 1, Canada will have an opportunity to lead the UN and the world into the next millennium.
Canada was one of the charter members of the UN and our active involvement in this organization is a cornerstone of our foreign policy.
It is my hope that during this term we will continue to lead on issues of human security, democratic development, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rules of law and good governance.
But it is also important to initiate a fundamental change to the way the UN Security Council functions. Canada's influence will make resolutions more transparent, effective and responsive to the needs of UN members. For example, when a Security Council resolution is passed, we must ensure its prompt implementation.