Gillard New York bound for UN talks

22 Sep 2012, 4:37 pm   -   Source: AAP
PM Julia Gillard will address world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. (AAP)

PM Julia Gillard will address world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. (AAP)

Prime Minister Julia Gillard will address world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly during her upcoming trip to New York.

Ahead of an October vote to fill vacancies on the United Nations Security Council, Julia Gillard will spend five days in New York bolstering support for Australia's election bid.

The prime minster heads to the Big Apple on Sunday for next week's formal opening of the UN General Assembly, where she'll make an address to the gathering of world leaders.

"The United Nations is the world's pre-eminent multilateral body, and Australia, as a founding member state, is committed to active engagement on its agenda," Ms Gillard said.

On October 18 the General Assembly will vote to fill five Security Council membership seats that are due for renewal for a 2013-14 term.

Australia, which last held a seat in 1985-86, is competing against frontrunners Finland and Luxembourg, with two positions available in its non-permanent category.

China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States are permanent council members, assisted by 10 non-permanent members.

News of a Palestinian bid to obtain non-member status at the UN looks set to dominate much of the General Assembly commentary.

Currently holding observer status, Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas said he will call for an "upgrade" in the territory's status at the UN next week.

British PM David Cameron is already in New York ahead of the General Assembly, as is US President Barack Obama.

Ms Gillard will meet with other world leaders during her New York visit, as well as attending events relating to the Millennium Development Goals, education and international peacekeeping.

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