​​​​​​​WASHINGTON 

Türkiye on Friday called for sweeping reforms to strengthen the UN and make it "more effective and transparent," as the world body marks its 80th anniversary this year.

Speaking before the UN Security Council, Türkiye’s diplomat at the UN, Kemal Onur Ekren, reaffirmed Ankara’s commitment to multilateralism and the principles of the UN Charter, stressing that the organization must adapt to meet contemporary global challenges.

"As we mark 80 years of this indispensable organization, we have the opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to multilateralism and principles of the UN while taking stock of the long-term vision that will define its future," Ekren said.

He noted that Türkiye’s support for the UN "as a founding member remains steadfast," emphasizing that the world body must remain a “forum for diplomacy and cooperation and the beacon of hope for those whose voices are often unheard."

Ekren underscored the need to make the UN "more agile, transparent, and responsive" to the evolving needs of the international community. He reiterated Türkiye’s backing for ongoing reform initiatives, including the UN80 process, aimed at improving the organization’s efficiency and effectiveness.

The envoy renewed Türkiye's longstanding call for reform of the Security Council, arguing that its current structure and frequent inaction undermine the UN’s credibility.

"Türkiye would like to see a more democratic, representative, transparent, effective and accountable Security Council," Ekren said, reiterating calls for a "more effective and transparent" UN that has the capacity and resources to uphold the principles of international peace and security.

"As we look to the future, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to a United Nations that is better equipped to respond to the ever-changing and increasing challenges of our time," he added.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has long pushed for reforms to the UN, often using the slogan: “The world is bigger than five,” which refers to the Security Council’s unrepresentative membership.

For years, the Council has faced claims that its five veto-wielding members -- the US, the UK, France, Russia and China -- command disproportionate influence.