Australia eyeing another term on UN Security Council

CANBERRA - Australia wants to return to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) just months after finishing its turbulent two-year term that covered the Ukraine situation and the rise of Islamic State, local media reported Thursday.

Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop confirmed in a speech on Wednesday night that the government was investigating how soon it could return to the 15-seat Council it left on December 31.

"I am currently scoping the opportunities for our next term on the UNSC," she told the United Nations Association of Australia in Canberra.

She said Australia had served with distinction during the 2013- 2014 term on the UNSC.

"Australia has enhanced its reputation as a country which can use its influence and relationships to make a positive contribution to global security," Bishop said.

Australia has won five two-year terms on the UNSC in its 69- year history. Its term prior to the last ended in 1986.