In a significant development, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the increasing global backing for Bharat’s bid for permanent membership at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He emphasized that sometimes such opportunities are not given generously and that one has to seize them.
Among the five permanent members (P5) of the UNSC, China remains the sole nation opposing Bharat’s inclusion. Ironically, Bharat had previously supported China’s bid for permanent membership. The P5 nations hold veto power, necessitating unanimous approval for any resolution.
Jaishankar expressed optimism, stating, “With each passing year, the feeling in the world is that India should be there, and I can feel that support.” He emphasized that the world doesn’t grant things easily, requiring nations to actively pursue their interests.
The External Affairs Minister highlighted India’s capabilities, citing the successful G20 presidency that resulted in the “New Delhi Declaration” despite differences among member nations. He asserted that a country with such capabilities could contribute significantly to the UNSC.
Reflecting on the UN’s relevance, Jaishankar acknowledged its diminishing effectiveness in addressing key issues. He noted that the UN was more relevant in the 1950s-60s, attributing its current limitations to the increasing number of countries and changing global dynamics.
Jaishankar criticized the P5’s internal conflicts, citing the Ukraine issue where they failed to reach a consensus. He pointed out that the UN’s normal process of renewal and change is hindered due to the dominance of a few countries.
Addressing the global power structure, Jaishankar stressed the importance of negotiating and shaping narratives to create fair systems. He noted that those with dominance, especially economic, tend to create systems that appear fair through negotiations and narrative shaping.
Bharat, a non-permanent member of the UNSC for eight terms, is part of the G4, advocating for UNSC reform. Recent support from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov affirmed Moscow’s backing for Bharat’s candidacy. Lavrov praised the G20 communique under New Delhi’s presidency, describing it as a triumph for Indian foreign policy and multilateral diplomacy.
Lavrov also expressed Russia’s support for Bharat’s aspiration as a permanent UNSC member. He highlighted the importance of multilateral cooperation and noted that Russia supports Bharat’s candidacy along with representatives from Latin America and Africa.
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