Paris: Making a strong pitch for India’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that the primary global body cannot legitimately speak for the world when the largest democracy and most populous country remains excluded from its permanent membership. In an interview with French newspaper ‘Les Echos’ ahead of his official visit to France, PM Modi highlighted the need for the UN and other international institutions to reflect the realities of the contemporary world.
On whether the credibility of the UN was at stake, with India still not finding permanent membership of the UNSC, PM Modi said that the UN was established in the aftermath of the Second World War and has to be assessed in terms of its representation of the present global landscape, which has significantly transformed over the past eighty years.
Further speaking to Les Echos, PM Modi said, “How can we talk of the UN Security Council as a primary organ of a global body, when entire continents of Africa and Latin America are ignored? How can it claim to speak for the world when its most populous country and its largest democracy, is not a permanent members? And its skewed membership leads to opaque decision making processes, which adds to its helplessness in addressing the challenges of today.”
Expressing appreciation for France’s stance on the matter, PM Modi emphasised the importance of granting a voice to all nations in discussions regarding proposed changes to the UN Security Council. He embarked on his visit to France at the invitation of President Macron, where he will serve as the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day Parade on July 14, accompanied by a contingent from the Indian armed forces, including three Rafale fighters.
During his two-day visit from July 13–14, PM Modi will engage in formal talks with President Emmanuel Macron. The French President will host a State Banquet and a private dinner in honour of the Prime Minister. Additionally, PM Modi will meet the Indian diaspora and hold meetings with top CEOs from both nations, further strengthening bilateral ties.
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