Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Wednesday that Canada will seek a two-year term on the U.N. Security Council starting in 2021, citing the country's resettling of Syrian refugees and a desire to take part in U.N. peacekeeping efforts as evidence of a renewed commitment to engagement in world affairs, according to AP. Trudeau, who took office in November, said Canada's ideals align with many of those dear to the U.N., including human rights, gender equality and diversity. Canada last held a seat on the Security Council in 2000. "It's time for Canada to step up once again," Trudeau said. Canada will compete with Ireland and Norway for two available seats on the council. Trudeau's announcement at the U.N. in front of about 300 diplomats, staffers and others came after U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's visit to Canada and meeting with Trudeau last month.
