UNITED NATIONS - The UN Security Council on Wednesday welcomed closer cooperation between the United Nations and the Arab League (AL) on the Middle East, saying that it will take steps to further enhance such cooperation.

"The Security Council recognizes and further encourages efforts by the League of Arab States to contribute to collective endeavors to settle conflicts in the Middle East peacefully as well as to promoting international responses to the transformations experienced in the region," the 15-nation body said in a statement.

"The Security Council expresses its determination to take effective steps to further enhance cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States," it said.

The statement was issued by the council after it met on the situation in the Middle East.

The Security Council said it welcomed the intensifying cooperation between the United Nations and the Arab League in the wake of dramatic changes in the region.

"The Security Council commends the members of the League of Arab States for their ongoing commitment to international peacekeeping and peace building, including through the contribution of troops to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations," it said.

Meanwhile, the council noted that cooperation with regional and subregional organizations in matters relating to the maintenance of peace and security "can improve collective security".

"The Security Council recognizes the importance of strengthening cooperation on capacity building with the League of Arab States in the maintenance of international peace and security," added the statement.

The council also reiterated its commitment to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East and to seek a comprehensive resolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict.