African leaders have asked the United Nations Security Council not to forget conflicts and poverty on the continent in the drive to fight international terrorism.

During a day-long council meeting on Tuesday, leaders from African countries said Africa must assume responsibility for ending its wars, combating AIDS, and promoting economic progress. But they called on both the United Nations and international donors to lend greater assistance.

The Secretary-General of the Organization of African Unity, Amara Essy, told the council, "solutions to African problems depend on us."

The session in New York was organized by current Security Council president Mauritius.

U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Louise Frechette called for building a stronger relationship between the United Nations and regional institutions on the continent.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, John Negroponte, told the council the United States remains committed to Africa.

Some information for this report provided by AP and Reuters.

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