"Build Pressure": S Jaishankar Explains India's Strategy To Get Permanent Seat At UN Security Council

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed confidence today (2 March) that India will secure permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), noting a global sentiment in favour of India's inclusion.

Speaking at an event in Rajkot, Gujarat, Jaishankar emphasised the need for continued efforts towards this goal, acknowledging the challenges posed by the current permanent members' control over the process, as per a report by NDTV.

He highlighted the historical context of the UNSC's formation, where five nations granted themselves permanent membership when there were only around 50 independent countries in the world.

Jaishankar noted that India, along with Japan, Germany, and Egypt, has proposed reforms to the UN, a step that he believes will advance the cause.

Jaishankar stated, "But we must build pressure, and when this pressure increases...There is a feeling in the world that the UN has weakened. There was a deadlock in the UN on the Ukraine war and no consensus was reached in the UN regarding Gaza. I think as this feeling increases, our chances of getting a permanent seat will increase."

He also stressed that while the path to permanent membership will require hard work, the growing global recognition of India's capabilities and contributions enhances its prospects.

Addressing concerns over the case of baby girl Ariha Shah, taken from her Indian parents in Germany, Jaishankar assured that efforts are being made to ensure she is not raised against her cultural heritage.

He stated that India has demonstrated the efficacy of democracy and economic resilience, positioning itself as a key player in global growth and development.