Africa, India congruent on UNSC reforms issue: Vivek Katju

Tweet

Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), May 26: Highlighting the aspects that India and African nations are on the same wavelength over the issue, senior Indian diplomat Vivek Katju has stressed on the need for reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to enable inclusion of other nations in its fold.

Briefing mediapersons at the conclusion of the India-Africa Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Wednesday, Katju, who is Secretary (West) in the External Affairs Ministry, observed that African nations were supportive towards India’s bid for permanent membership in the UNSC, and reciprocating the gesture, extended support to Africa’s ‘legitimate’ aspirations.

“The countries of Africa have certain aspirations, certain claims that India considers as legitimate. Similarly, the African position is that India’s claims and India’s aspirations are legitimate too,” said Katju.

Support from African nations would provide a major fillip to India’s chances to gain an entry into the UNSC as a permanent member.

On this aspect, Katju maintained that the need for UNSC reforms was fast gaining recognition among several nations.

“The world has changed. African countries must have a place in the United Nations Security Council. So should India, on a permanent basis. There is growing recognition of this fact,” Katju said.

India contends a seat on the security council would reflect the importance of the G20 nation as its trillion dollar economy helps spur global growth and its government exerts more and more influence over issues from Doha trade to climate change talks.

Over the past few months, several nations, including the US, Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, among others, have indicated their support to India’s UNSC bid. (ANI)