Tariq Albanai, a permanent representative of Kuwait to the United Nations and co-chairman of inter-governmental talks, has expressed support for India’s membership in the United Nations Security Council. He called India a “a major player on the world stage” and emphasized that if the council expands, India will be a contender.
On Thursday, while addressing a press briefing on the status of the United Nations General Assembly inter-governmental dialogue on the Security Council reform, he recalled his visit to India with his co-chairman Alex Marshik. Kuwait and Austria Security Council co-head the inter-governmental talks on reform.
Asked what to be ensured to improve UNSC, Albani replied, “Last year I had the privilege of coming to India with my prestigious co-head Excel Marchic and interacting at the highest level. And the goal of this improvised council should be representative and of course, India is a chief player on the world stage today. But, its membership is 193 countries, not?”
He said, “And this idea is representative to all the members of the United Nations and all. Therefore, if it is decided that the council will be expanded from 21 to 27 members, India will surely be a contender in it and will be subject to the decision of comprehensive membership.”
Earlier on 1 April, the French Embassy in India said that since France was headed by the United Nations Security Council, it would focus on the need for UNSC reform to give India a permanent seat.
In a post on X, the embassy stated that under the monthly chairmanship of the Security Council, it would carry forward discussions in the areas of global peace, security and human influences. The embassy further highlighted that France would repeat the need for UNSC reform that would give India a permanent seat in the higher table.
The French Embassy in India said in a post on X, “Today, France is handling the monthly chairmanship of the UN Security Council. It will lead the major discussions on global peace and security, focusing on human influences. To reflect today’s world, France reiterates the need for #unSC reform that provides a permanent seat to India.”
It is noteworthy that India has been demanding a permanent seat in the Security Council for better representation of the interests of developing countries. This demand of the country has gained momentum with the support of the international community.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) consists of 15 member countries, including five permanent members with veto power and ten temporary members selected for a two -year term.
Five permanent members of UNSC include China, United Kingdom, France, Russia and the United States. Non-established members of the United Nations Security Council are selected by UNGA for a 2-year term.
