The United States has renewed its endorsement of India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized that India, along with Japan and Germany, is well-deserving of a permanent position within the council. This continued support is part of ongoing discussions aimed at modernizing the UNSC and aligning it with the evolving global order.
On Thursday, Thomas-Greenfield outlined a set of proposals for UNSC reforms, underscoring the U.S.’ commitment to creating a more inclusive and representative Security Council. These reform proposals are available for review on the UNSC’s official website.
The upcoming United Nations General Assembly summit, themed “Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow,” is set to begin on September 22, followed by a general debate from September 24 to 30. While it was initially expected that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would speak at the high-level debate on September 26, it has been confirmed that External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar will represent India on September 28.
As the summit draws near, Thomas-Greenfield reiterated the U.S.’ backing of broader Security Council reforms. These reforms include adding permanent seats for two African nations and increasing temporary representation for African countries. Additionally, the U.S. has proposed creating a seat for small island developing states, further reflecting the growing calls for diversity within the UNSC.
Speaking at a Council on Foreign Relations event titled “The Future of Multilateralism and UN Reform,” Thomas-Greenfield acknowledged the G4 coalition—comprising Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan—that supports each other’s bids for permanent membership in the Security Council. She emphasized that India, as the world’s most populous country, has a rightful claim to permanent membership, stating, “There is no justification for denying India a permanent seat.”
Thomas-Greenfield emphasized that institutional reforms are long overdue. Citing her late mentor, former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, she noted that institutions, like individuals over 70 years old, need periodic renewal to remain effective.
Two years ago, President Biden outlined the U.S. commitment to expanding the UNSC to include permanent representation for Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. He also reiterated U.S. support for India, Japan, and Germany to secure permanent seats.
“It’s time to make President Biden’s vision a reality,” Thomas-Greenfield concluded, urging swift action to ensure the Security Council reflects today’s global dynamics.