Pretoria - South Africa has thanked the international community for having confidence in the country after being re-elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the period 2011-2012.
For the second time, South Africa yesterday won a non-permanent seat on the council.
The country will push for international peace and the African agenda during its two-year term.
South Africa received 182 votes in the 192-member UN General Assembly in New York.
Cabinet welcomed this move, saying it proves that South Africa is a global player.
"This election indicates the UN's confidence in South Africa as a global player and is the outcome of many years of hard work by this government to ensure that the developing world has a strong voice in the UNSC," government spokesperson Themba Maseko said on Thursday.
For her part, International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane thanked SADC, the African Union and United Nations' member states, saying this proved the country's ability to advance the African agenda of achieving peace, security and development, including respect for human rights.
"South Africa is humbled, and at the same time delighted by the overwhelming support it received from the member states of the United Nations during these elections," Minister Nkoana-Mashabane said.
She committed to South Africa maintaining international peace and security during its term, saying it will be a responsible partner that gives effect to the purpose and principles of the UN Charter.
"We pledge our commitment to promoting effective partnership between the UN and regional and sub-regional organisations, in particular the African Union Peace and Security Council, in the maintenance of international peace and security."
Nkoana-Mashabane said the country will continue to work tirelessly toward improving the working methods of the UNSC to make it more legitimate, representative and more effective.
"We would be among those who promote greater consultation with member states in the conduct of the work of the council.
"South Africa will continue to place emphasis on the promotion of issues affecting women, children, who are the most victims in conflict areas."
South Africa, which first served in the council during the 2007/2008 period, was elected alongside Germany, India, Colombia and Portugal.
Each non-permanent country stays on the council for two years, alongside the permanent powers - Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States, who have the right to veto any council resolution.
