United Nations, Oct 19 (IANS): The international community should give more attention to the special role of women in peace- building process, and the protection of women during and after conflicts, a Chinese envoy to UN has said.

"Respecting and protecting women's rights is not only a reflection of progress in human society and civilisation, but also closely linked to global peace and development," reported Xinhua citing Liu Jieyi, China's permanent representative to the UN, at a Security Council open debate Friday on "Women and Peace and Security."

Effective participation of women is an important foundation for realising sustainable peace and social stability, he said. "Women should become important participants in conflict prevention and mediation and enjoy adequate right to decision-making and participation in the post-conflict peace-building and national development process."

The international community should, through promoting economic and social development, effectively improve women's status and push forward their positive contribution to the maintenance of international peace and security, said Liu.

On the protection of women's safety and rights, Liu said that in all countries, it is the government that bears the primary responsibility.

The international community should also support countries in their efforts to safeguard women's rights and interests and should provide constructive assistance in that regard, said Liu.