India’s Perspectives on Multilateralism: MEA Secretary Sibi George Hosts UN Delegation
In a significant move, Sibi George, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Secretary (West), recently hosted a dinner for a United Nations’ delegation. The event, which took place on Sunday, aimed to share India’s perspectives on multilateralism with the visiting dignitaries.
India’s Vision for Global Governance
The MEA delegation’s visit comes at a crucial time, as India is gearing up to run for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028-29 term. In July, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar launched India’s campaign for the UNSC seat in New York, outlining New Delhi’s vision for a more representative, effective, and future-ready global order.
India’s Approach to Multilateralism
Highlighting India’s broader vision for global governance, EAM Jaishankar emphasized the need for a secure, peaceful, and equitable world. He stated that India’s focus would be on working for a world where the voice of the Global South is heard in equal measure. This approach is rooted in the principles of SHANTI – Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust, and Integrity.
Strengthening the Voice of the Global South
India’s approach to multilateralism would focus on strengthening the voice of the Global South in matters relating to international peace and security. EAM Jaishankar emphasized the need for dialogue, cooperation, and efforts to bridge differences among nations. This approach is designed to promote a more inclusive and representative global order.
Building a Future-Ready UN Peacekeeping Framework
The External Affairs Minister also outlined India’s commitment to building a future-ready UN peacekeeping framework. This framework would be better equipped, technologically enabled, realistically mandated, and focused on core objectives. India would continue to champion the Women, Peace, and Security agenda and support a greater role for women peacekeepers.
Prioritizing Maritime Security
India would also prioritize promoting a free, open, and rules-based maritime order in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Ensuring the safe and unimpeded flow of maritime commerce, combating piracy, safeguarding seafarers, and supporting Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions would remain key priorities.
A Fresh Perspective on Multilateralism
The visit of the UN delegation to India comes at a time when the global landscape is undergoing significant changes. The world is witnessing a shift in the balance of power, with emerging economies like India playing a more prominent role in global affairs. India’s perspectives on multilateralism offer a fresh approach to global governance, one that prioritizes the needs and concerns of the Global South.
Conclusion
The visit of the UN delegation to India marks an important milestone in India’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UNSC. As India shares its perspectives on multilateralism with the global community, it is clear that New Delhi is committed to promoting a more inclusive, representative, and effective global order. With its focus on SHANTI, India is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of global governance.