In a landmark address at the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged his nation’s support for India’s bid to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This development marks a crucial milestone in India’s decades-long pursuit of permanent membership on the prestigious council.
Mr. Starmer emphasized the imperative for UNSC reforms, asserting that the council must evolve to become a more representative body, unhindered by political gridlocks. He advocated for the expansion of permanent representation to include Africa, Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany, alongside an increase in seats for elected members.
The UK Prime Minister’s endorsement comes on the heels of similar expressions of support from US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron. This collective backing from major world powers lends significant momentum to India’s bid for a permanent UNSC seat.
India has long maintained that its emergence as a major global player warrants its inclusion among the UNSC’s permanent members. The nation’s proponents argue that its increased participation would render the council more representative and equitable.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently cautioned that the UNSC’s prevailing structure risks eroding its credibility unless its working methods undergo substantial reforms. Mr. Starmer’s address underscored the pressing need for reforms to ensure the global multilateral system’s effectiveness and responsiveness.
Must Read: India Condemns Pakistan’s Kashmir Statement at UNGA: ‘Hypocrisy at Its Worst