Bhutan has expressed its support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay emphasized India’s economic growth and leadership of the Global South as valid reasons for this support. He highlighted the need for UN reform to reflect current global realities and acknowledged Japan’s contributions as a candidate for UNSC membership. Mr. Tobgay also reflected on Bhutan’s journey from LDC status and called for increased international efforts to assist LDCs. He concluded by reiterating the importance of the Pact for the Future for the most vulnerable populations.
Bhutan has publicly endorsed India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC). During the high-level week of the UN assembly, Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay conveyed his nation’s support, highlighting India’s significant economic growth and leadership role within the Global South as justifications for this endorsement. In his address to the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, Mr. Tobgay expressed gratitude towards India for their unwavering support throughout Bhutan’s development journey, particularly as the country recently graduated from the Least Developed Countries (LDC) category. He stated, “The United Nations must evolve to meet the realities of today’s world. The Security Council, as it stands, is a relic of the past.” This statement underscores his belief in the need for reform within the UNSC, emphasizing the importance of making it more representative of the current geopolitical landscape. Prime Minister Tobgay also acknowledged Japan’s contribution as a leading donor and peacebuilder, advocating for its inclusion as a permanent member of the Security Council. His address reflected on Bhutan’s accomplishments in its struggle to rise from the LDC classification, attributing this success to international support from friends and partners, including substantial contributions from India. Furthermore, Mr. Tobgay raised concerns about the limited number of nations that have successfully graduated from the LDC category, arguing that it is imperative for the international community to intensify efforts to assist all LDC nations in achieving developmental milestones. He underscored the necessity to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and vulnerability with renewed urgency. Mr. Tobgay concluded by briefing the audience on the recently adopted Pact for the Future, which aims to transform the lives of the world’s most vulnerable populations, reinforcing Bhutan’s call for concerted international action.
The context surrounding Bhutan’s support for India’s bid for a permanent UNSC seat stems from ongoing discussions about the need to reform the Security Council to reflect the realities of contemporary global politics. The current structure has been criticized for its inability to represent emerging powers and developing countries adequately. As part of its commitment to international cooperation and development, Bhutan advocates for broader representation within the UNSC, aligning its stance with like-minded nations. Additionally, Bhutan’s recent graduation from the LDC status marks a significant milestone in its development journey, emphasizing the importance of international partnerships in achieving sustainable growth.
In conclusion, Bhutan’s support for India’s pursuit of permanent membership within a reformed UNSC highlights a shift towards a more inclusive representation in global governance. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay’s address at the UN emphasized the need for reform to align the Security Council with modern geopolitical realities. As Bhutan continues to navigate its development journey, the reinforcement of partnerships with nations like India plays a vital role in its growth, further underscoring the significance of international solidarity in achieving development goals.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
