Seychelles has reiterated its support for India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council (UNSC), with Foreign Minister Barry Faure saying New Delhi deserves a place at the global body’s highest decision-making forum because of its global standing and contributions to international peace and security.
Speaking to ANI ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day state visit to Seychelles, Faure said the post-1945 global order and international institutions require reform to reflect present-day realities.
“The global order established in 1945 needs reform. International institutions must better reflect today’s realities. There is a strong need for more balanced representation, particularly for countries like India and regions like Africa, which currently lack permanent representation in key global institutions,” he said.
“India deserves a permanent seat at the UN Security Council given its population, global role, and contributions to peacekeeping, maritime security, and multilateral diplomacy,” the Seychelles Foreign Minister added.
Faure reaffirmed Seychelles’ support for India’s candidature, saying New Delhi’s inclusion would strengthen global governance.
“Seychelles supports this position. India has also played a strong role in the Non-Aligned Movement, and its inclusion would strengthen global balance and peace,” he said.
Describing India-Seychelles ties as “excellent”, Faure said the partnership dates back to Seychelles’ independence in 1976 and has evolved into a strong strategic relationship.
“This is an excellent relationship. It started from independence in 1976, forming the foundation of formal relations,” Faure said.
“It is a strategic partnership between the two countries. We are very happy that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has chosen to visit Seychelles. He usually undertakes multi-country tours, but we are honoured that he is coming here as the Guest of Honour to celebrate the jubilee of our independence as well as the establishment of diplomatic relations,” he added.
Highlighting India’s importance as a partner, Faure said Seychelles continues to pursue an independent foreign policy.
“India is one of our closest partners, but we continue to maintain relations with all countries that respect our sovereignty and independence,” he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday morning emplaned for a three-day state visit to Seychelles, where he will attend the country’s Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour and hold talks aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties.
(ANI)
