During his speech, Gaddafi repeatedly singled out the UN Security Council and veto-wielding permanent members, calling that body a 'terror council'.

When he first arrived at the UN building in New York, Gaddafi scribbled the phrase 'we are here' on his seat.

'Today, the voice of Gaddafi is heard all over the world... Today, his thoughts shook the old building of the United Nations and blow up the old minds of a world that lives in the shadows of WWII's outcomes,' said the editorial of the daily al-Jamahiriya newspaper.

The editorial said: 'For the first time, people throughout the world can breath after leader Muammer Gaddafi's speech in the UN.'

Gaddafi said he spoke on behalf of the African Union because Libya currently holds the chairmanship of the organisation. His appearance drew protesters outside the building.