UNSC Cannot Remain Hostage to the Interests of a Few Nations: India

New York : India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador P. Harish, delivered a firm statement on the global stage, asserting that the process of reforming the UN Security Council (UNSC) cannot be held "hostage" to the narrow and divisive interests of a handful of member states.

India made its stand clear following the UN General Assembly’s (UNGA) oral decision to roll over the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on UNSC reform into its 81st session. While India joined the consensus to adopt the decision, it voiced deep disappointment over the sluggish pace of progress.

Drawing a vivid parallel from Indian philosophy, Ambassador Harish noted:

"Much like the soul traversing endless cycles of birth and rebirth before achieving salvation, this negotiation process has completed 17 cycles without reaching a tangible resolution or 'liberation'."

Demand for Time-Bound, Text-Based Negotiations
Warning that the IGN framework is now entering its 18th year, India highlighted growing frustration among citizens worldwide over the UN's inaction. India reiterated that the only viable way to break the longstanding deadlock is to adopt text-based negotiations bound by a strict timeframe.

Highlighting Sustainable Development and Maritime Security
In addition to addressing UNSC reforms, Ambassador Harish represented India’s global vision across two other major UN forums:

Sustainable Urbanization: During the midterm review of the 'New Urban Agenda' at the UNGA plenary session, the Ambassador reaffirmed India's commitment to sustainable urban growth. He cited national initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and PM Awas Yojana as prime examples of translating UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into action on the ground.

Middle East Situation & Maritime Safety: Speaking at the Security Council's quarterly open debate on the Middle East, India strongly condemned recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz. Stressing that the protection of critical trade routes is a collective global responsibility, India also expressed deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.