Chile Backs India’s Permanent UNSC Membership, Russia Calls It ‘Legitimate Aspiration’

Chile’s President Gabriel Boric Font has voiced support for India’s inclusion as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), joining a growing chorus of world leaders. Speaking during the general debate of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York, Font called for a comprehensive reform of the UN to reflect the realities of the modern world.

Calls for Reform Echo Globally

Font stressed that the global landscape has evolved significantly since the UN’s creation in 1945. He aligned his position with leaders such as UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and US President Joe Biden, who all advocated for reforming the Security Council. “The world has changed a lot since 1945,” Font said, questioning what forces might still be holding back this transformation.

The Chilean leader called for setting a deadline for reforms. He argued that by the time the UN turns 80, the Security Council should include India, Brazil, and at least one African country as permanent members. “There is nothing that prevents it, except the lack of our own will,” he emphasized.

Growing International Support for India

On Sunday, following his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Quad Summit in Delaware, US President Joe Biden reaffirmed Washington’s full support for India’s permanent seat on the UNSC. A joint statement released after the meeting highlighted India’s leadership on the world stage and underscored the need for global institutions to reflect India’s voice.

Russia has also consistently supported India’s bid for permanent membership. Upon his arrival in New York for the 79th UN General Assembly session, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s backing. Lavrov emphasized the importance of adding representatives from developing nations, including India, Brazil, and an African country, to the Security Council. “Developing countries are under-represented in the Security Council,” Lavrov stated, underscoring Russia’s longstanding support for reform.

The push for reform is gaining traction, with key global powers calling for a Security Council that reflects a multipolar world, ensuring a more inclusive and representative governance structure at the UN.

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