India seeks help of African nations to bring reforms in UN
India, an aspirant for the permanent membership of UN Security Council, on Friday sought the crucial support of 53 African countries in bringing about reforms in the world body.
By PTI |
NEW DELHI: India, an aspirant for the permanent membership of UN Security Council, on Friday sought the crucial support of 53 African countries in bringing about reforms in the world body.
New Delhi also impressed upon Africa to join hands with it in the fight against terror, tackle climate change and to ensure that the vision of Doha round of WTO trade talks as a developmental round becomes a reality.
In comments reflecting India's growing interest in the African continent, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said India and Africa are "natural allies" and "we eagerly look forward to a comprehensive engagement with Africa".
He emphasised that Africa has always enjoyed an "important position" in India's foreign policy priorities as apart from common civilisational heritage, "we are united by common ideas, ideals and icons".
Noting that reform of the UN remains high on India's agenda, he said "we seek the support of African countries for overall reforms, including democratisation and expansion of the UNSC in both permanent and non-permanent categories".
The support of African countries is crucial for India's bid for a permanent seat in the Security Council.
Addressing the valedictory session of 4th India-Africa Project Partnership Conclave, he also spoke about the threat of terrorism and the need for "exercising zero tolerance" and enhancing international cooperation to fight the menace.
"India looks forward to enhancing its cooperation with African countries on this matter, both bilaterally and in various multilateral fora. The conclusion of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism is important in this regard," he said.
New Delhi also impressed upon Africa to join hands with it in the fight against terror, tackle climate change and to ensure that the vision of Doha round of WTO trade talks as a developmental round becomes a reality.
In comments reflecting India's growing interest in the African continent, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said India and Africa are "natural allies" and "we eagerly look forward to a comprehensive engagement with Africa".
He emphasised that Africa has always enjoyed an "important position" in India's foreign policy priorities as apart from common civilisational heritage, "we are united by common ideas, ideals and icons".
Noting that reform of the UN remains high on India's agenda, he said "we seek the support of African countries for overall reforms, including democratisation and expansion of the UNSC in both permanent and non-permanent categories".
The support of African countries is crucial for India's bid for a permanent seat in the Security Council.
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Addressing the valedictory session of 4th India-Africa Project Partnership Conclave, he also spoke about the threat of terrorism and the need for "exercising zero tolerance" and enhancing international cooperation to fight the menace.
"India looks forward to enhancing its cooperation with African countries on this matter, both bilaterally and in various multilateral fora. The conclusion of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism is important in this regard," he said.
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