In a landmark address at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer voiced his support for India’s bid to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This announcement comes on the heels of similar endorsements from US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron, signaling a growing international consensus in favor of India’s inclusion.
Starmer emphasized the need for a more representative and effective Security Council, stating that “the Security Council has to change to become a more representative body, willing to act – not paralysed by politics”. He advocated for permanent African representation, as well as seats for Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany, and additional seats for elected members.
The development is significant, as it follows a joint statement by the Quad leaders (US, India, Japan, and Australia) emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms of the UN body. US President Joe Biden had previously reaffirmed the US’s backing for India’s inclusion in a reformed Security Council during bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 21.
The UNSC currently comprises five permanent members (Russia, the UK, China, France, and the US) and 10 non-permanent members elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms. The five permanent members hold veto power over substantive resolutions.
French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier endorsed India’s inclusion, along with Brazil, Japan, Germany, and two African nations, stressing the need for a more inclusive and representative UNSC. With the UK now joining the chorus, India’s bid for a permanent seat has gained significant momentum.
As the international community pushes for reforms, India’s inclusion is seen as a crucial step towards a more representative and effective Security Council. The growing support from major world powers underscores India’s increasing influence on the global stage.
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