Iran loses to Japan in battle for UN seat
Published: 17 October, 2008, 17:30
Japan has seen off a challenge from Iran for a seat on the United Nations Security Council. The winner was announced after a secret vote in the General Assembly in New York.
Five new non-permanent members were named after the 192 UN members cast their ballots. Austria, Turkey, Japan, Uganda and Mexico were awarded seats.
Candidate countries needed the support of two-thirds of the member states to win a seat.
The countries chosen will hold their seats for two years, beginning in 2009.
Iran was looking for its second ever term in the body, which has passed a series of resolutions against Tehran because of its nuclear programme.
The 15-seat council is the powerhouse of the U.N. with the ability to impose sanctions and dispatch peacekeepers.
17.10.2008, 17:18
Massive mosque opens in ChechnyaOne of the largest mosques in Europe is opening its doors today in Grozny, the capital of the Chechen republic. With minarets over 60 metres tall, the 'Heart of Chechnya' will be able to accommodate up to 10,000 people. |
17.10.2008, 23:45
How accurate are U.S electronic voting machines?The latest polls in the U.S. show Barack Obama is stealing popularity from his rival John McCain after the two clashed in their final debate on Wednesday. But when it comes down to the vote itself, there are concerns the use of electronic machines may hav |
