Brazil returns to UN Security Council

SAO PAULO, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- The United Nations voted Thursday to return Brazil to the ranks of the Security Council, a decision that the nation hopes will lead to its permanent placement in the group.

It is the South American nation's 9th turn on the council, last serving a stint from 1998-1999.

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Brazil's turn at the table is scheduled to begin on Jan. 1, 2004.

While the appointment was expected by Brazilian diplomats at the U.N. headquarters in New York, where the decision was made, and politicians here, it signifies Brazil's quest to become a permanent member of the council.

The United Nations is currently undergoing institutional reform that could include adding new members to the council's five-permanent members, none of which are from Latin America.

Brazil has made it clear in recent months that it wants to be the regional permanent representative. Mexico and Argentina, however, have similar ambitions.