External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York on Monday to discuss significant global concerns and enhance bilateral relations between India and the UN. Jaishankar took to X to express satisfaction over the engagement, highlighting that the discussions encompassed critical geopolitical developments such as situations in West Asia, Ukraine, and Sudan. This meeting signifies an ongoing commitment to strengthen ties between India and the UN.

India’s Candidature for UNSC

During his visit, Minister Jaishankar officially launched India’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the term 2028-29. He outlined India’s core priorities, its extensive history of peacekeeping, and its steadfast commitment to multilateralism. Jaishankar remarked that India’s bid comes at a pertinent time, when the world is facing increasing conflicts and instability; thus, the role of the UN is becoming more crucial.

At the UN headquarters, Jaishankar articulated that India’s candidacy would be evaluated by fellow member states based on the nation’s vision for addressing global challenges and its historical contributions to international peace. He stated that it is reasonable for member states to want to understand what India can offer the Council, which includes both its vision and track record.

Jaishankar introduced India’s approach to global governance encapsulated in the ‘SHANTI’ vision, which stands for “Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust and Integrity.” He described this framework as essential in fostering a secure and equitable international environment, noting that peace, progress, and prosperity must be pursued comprehensively.

India’s Contributions to Peacekeeping Operations

In his address, Jaishankar highlighted India’s extensive contribution to UN peacekeeping efforts, revealing that New Delhi has deployed nearly 300,000 personnel across approximately 50 missions since the UN’s establishment. He noted that peacekeeping is vital for maintaining international security and that India has historically played a leading role in fulfilling this responsibility. Currently, India has approximately 4,300 personnel engaged in ten active missions.

Jaishankar stated that India would continue to advocate for well-equipped and technologically advanced peacekeeping operations, while also supporting the ‘Women, Peace and Security’ agenda. He underlined that India’s dedication to peacekeeping underscores its commitment to international stability and security.

Moreover, the minister emphasized India’s role as a trustworthy development partner, mentioning that Indian-funded projects are operational in 79 countries. He reiterated India’s dedication to fostering dialogue and diplomacy in a globally conflicted environment, aiming to address the concerns of the Global South. This positioning reinforces India’s intent to bridge divides and promote common interests amidst varied global challenges.

Prospects of India’s UN Security Council Membership

Jaishankar expressed optimism regarding India’s candidacy, indicating that the country’s involvement in the UNSC would enhance decision-making processes through more comprehensive consultations and alignment of international interests. He sought the support of member states for India’s bid, stating that India’s presence in the Council could significantly bolster the institution’s efficacy.

If elected, India will join the ten rotating non-permanent members of the UNSC, serving two-year terms alongside the five permanent members: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Membership requires a two-thirds majority vote from the UN General Assembly, comprising 193 member states.

India has previously held a non-permanent seat on eight occasions and champions comprehensive reform of the UNSC to better reflect contemporary global realities. Following his engagements at the UN, Jaishankar is scheduled to travel to Brussels for the 3rd India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting, where he will meet with EU and Belgian officials on July 14 and 15.

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