New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed unwavering confidence on Saturday, asserting that India will inevitably secure a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). However, he cautioned that the journey won’t be straightforward, citing the presence of numerous countries keen on obstructing India’s path to the coveted seat.
Addressing the Indian community during the two-day Indian Ocean Conference, Jaishankar highlighted the perceptible shift in how the world perceives India. “We will get there. I am 100 per cent certain we will get there,” he emphasized, acknowledging the competitive global landscape.
“Some will try to block us, will make that passage difficult or put some kind of obstacles, some kind of argument in the way,” he added, refraining from singling out any particular nation. Nevertheless, Jaishankar expressed heightened optimism compared to previous years, underscoring India’s evolving global stature.
Jaishankar emphasized that while many issues command global attention, only a few dominate the global discourse. He noted India’s growing trust and esteem on the international stage, with many countries advocating for its inclusion in the UNSC.
India’s consistent success in various United Nations elections, often outperforming existing Security Council members, underscores its widespread support. Jaishankar projected India’s trajectory over the next 25 years, envisioning a substantial economic expansion and amplified global influence.
However, he stressed the imperative for India to prioritize domestic affairs, ensuring internal coherence and progress. “Our time is coming… but we have to work for it,” he reiterated, emphasizing the need for relentless efforts towards this goal.
Jaishankar’s remarks align with India’s persistent advocacy for UNSC reform, challenging the status quo dominated by a select group of permanent members. India has long argued that the current composition of the UNSC fails to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities.
With China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US holding permanent membership and veto power, India seeks to secure a rightful place at the UN high table, advocating for a more inclusive and representative Security Council.
