Spain congratulated Jordan on its election to serve on the Security Council as a non-permanent member for two-years beginning on January 1, 2014, after getting 178 votes. Spanish Foreign Ministry expressed, in a statement Saturday, its full support to Jordan in dealing with challenges that are facing the international community and to keeping international peace and security according to the UN charter. Jordan's stances regarding the peace process in the Middle East region is an evidence of its competence to fill such seat at an international organization, the statement added. Saudi Arabia was also elected in the October vote, but shortly thereafter declined to accept to fill a seat at the Security Council. It apologized for its non-acceptance, explaining that the country could not serve on the Council until the body is "reformed and enabled, effectively and practically, to carry out its duties and responsibilities in maintaining international peace and security." The Kingdom nevertheless reaffirmed its commitment to the UN and the goals of the Organization.