UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Endorses India’s Bid for Permanent UN Security Council Seat
In a significant show of support, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has backed India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Speaking at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly on Thursday, Starmer called for reforms to make the Security Council more representative and effective. His endorsement follows similar statements by US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron, both advocating for India’s inclusion.
In his address, Starmer emphasized the need for the Security Council to evolve, stating, “The Security Council must change to become a more representative body, ready to act, not stalled by political deadlock.”
He further added, “We support permanent representation for Africa on the Council, as well as India, Brazil, Japan, and Germany as permanent members, along with increased seats for elected members.”
This statement follows strong support from Biden and Macron, who also urged for India’s inclusion as a permanent UNSC member during their respective speeches at the UN General Assembly this week.
Currently, the UNSC comprises five permanent members—Russia, the UK, China, France, and the United States—who hold veto power, alongside 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms by the General Assembly.
French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his support for India’s UNSC bid during his address on Wednesday, echoing his longstanding advocacy for Security Council reform. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden also expressed his backing for India’s permanent membership just last week, solidifying international momentum for India’s inclusion.
