Talks begin on Security Council

UNITED NATIONS — The General Assembly launched negotiations Thursday aimed at reforming the Security Council after nearly 30 years of efforts mired in national and regional rivalries.

Representatives of the 192 member states met informally behind closed doors to listen to the timetable for talks on five key issues, including the size, composition and power of an expanded council.

The Security Council currently has 15 seats.

Ten are filled by nonpermanent members elected for two-year terms from all regions of the world. The other five are permanent members with veto power whose support is essential for any reform -- the United States, Russia, China, Britain and France.