President addresses UNSC, appeals for help

President addresses UNSC, appeals for help

"The natural disaster claimed tens of human lives, flooded towns and villages, destroyed arable lands, harmed economy, and caused inestimable damage. To diminish the magnitude of the catastrophe, the citizens heeded the call of their government and expressed a high level of solidarity, fighting courageously and calmly to save what was possible. Unfortunately, despite our enormous will and desire, we cannot rebuild alone what has been destroyed,"said Nikolić.

He emphasized that Serbia needs assistance in helping the people to restore what they have lost, to re-cultivate the land where this is possible, and where not, to help them weather this year's crisis and start the next year under normal conditions.

Nikolić asked members of the UNSC to view a DVD that has been distributed to them, with the footage of the tragedy that hit Serbia.

"A man does not demean himself if he asks for assistance, but a man is only great if he provides it," Serbian president said.

He expressed his gratitude to all countries and nations that helped or will help Serbia overcome the tragedy and the destruction caused by the catastrophic floods.

"We do not ask from others what they do not have, but only a part of what they have in excess of their needs, he said. What is a little more for you, is a lot for us, and it is most needed," said Nikolić, concluding his appeal with the question, "what is life all about if not empathy and the will to help others."

The meeting of the UN Security Council on Tuesday in New York was called to discuss the latest report on Kosovo filed by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.