'Most Populous Country, Largest Democracy Not Represented': PM Modi Calls For India's Rightful Place In UN Security Council

India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has strongly advocated for permanent membership of the country in the UN Security Council, stating that India needs to regain its rightful place as the most populous nation.

PM Modi said in an interview with French publication Les Echos, "The issue is not just of credibility, but something much larger. How can the UN Security Council claim to speak for the world when its most populous country and its largest democracy is not a permanent member?"

PM Modi criticised the UN Security Council for being out of touch with the changing world order. He believes that the council's current composition leads to opaque decision-making processes, which hinders its ability to address present-day challenges.

He mentioned that French President Emmanuel Macron shares this viewpoint.

According to PM Modi, many countries are in agreement about the changes they would like to see in the UN Security Council, including the role India should play. He emphasized the need for the council to adapt to the realities of the modern world in order to effectively address global issues.

PM Modi addressed the French media at his official residence in Delhi before departing for France.

He is set to be the guest of honour at the Bastille Day celebrations on Friday (14 July).

In his address, PM Modi highlighted "As the world's largest democracy, with unparalleled social and economic diversity, our success will demonstrate that democracy delivers. That it is possible for harmony to exist amidst diversity. At the same time, there is a natural expectation of adjustments in the international system and institutions to give the rightful place to the world's largest democracy." 

PM Modi also emphasized India's role as a bridge between the Global South and the West.

He acknowledged the long-standing denial of rights to the Global South and expressed the frustration felt by its members. He emphasized the need for the Global South to have a voice and representation in decision-making processes, as the true spirit of democracy has not been respected in this regard.

The Prime Minister's statements shed light on the importance of India's presence on the global stage. As a democracy with diverse social and economic conditions, India's success can inspire others.

Additionally, India's position as a bridge between the Global South and the West highlights its potential to facilitate dialogue and bring about positive change in the international community.

PM Modi emphasized that the current era does not call for war, expanding on his previous statement to Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the Ukraine conflict. He expressed deep concern about the global impact of the war, particularly on the Global South.

He said "India's stand has been clear, transparent and consistent. I have said that it is not an era of war. We have urged both sides to resolve issues through dialogue and diplomacy. I told them that India is ready to support all genuine efforts that can help bring this conflict to an end. We believe that all countries have an obligation to respect the respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other countries, to abide by international law and adhere to the UN Charter".

Highlighting India's soft power, PM Modi highlighted that the country's exports have never been focused on war and subjugation.

Instead, India has contributed to global peace and progress through disciplines such as yoga, ayurveda, spirituality, science, mathematics, and astronomy. India has always aimed to be a positive force for the world.

In response to a question about the universality of "western values" and the need for countries to find their own path, he emphasized that progress is made when outdated anachronistic notions are abandoned.