Kazan (Russia): External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar reiterated India’s call for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council, emphasizing the need for reforming established global institutions to ensure a more equitable world order.

Speaking at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, he also echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message that this is not an era of war, and global disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the shifting global order, stating, “BRICS is a statement of how profoundly the old order is changing. At the same time, many inequities of the past also continue.”

He noted that uneven access to developmental resources and modern technology, along with the challenges posed by the COVID pandemic and various conflicts, have exacerbated issues for the Global South, particularly in areas like health, food, and fuel security.

He expressed concern that the world risks falling behind in achieving sustainable development goals and suggested ways to create a more equitable global order.

"First, by strengthening and expanding platforms of an independent nature, and by widening the choices in different domains," he said.

He emphasized that BRICS has the potential to make a significant impact for the Global South.

Dr. Jaishankar also called for reforming established global institutions, particularly the UN Security Council.

"Second, by reforming established institutions and mechanisms, especially the UN Security Council, in the permanent and non-permanent categories," he added. He also called for updating the working procedures of multilateral development banks.

He noted that India initiated efforts in this direction during its G20 Presidency, with Brazil continuing the work.

India’s longstanding demand for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council is supported by major global powers, including the US, UK, and France.

The council’s permanent members are China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US.

In his address, Dr. Jaishankar outlined further steps toward global equity, including creating more resilient and regional production hubs to ensure shorter supply chains, correcting colonial-era infrastructure distortions, and enhancing global connectivity options.

"This must be a collective endeavor for the common good, with the utmost respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty," he said.

He also highlighted several Indian initiatives of global relevance, such as the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Global Biofuel Alliance, Mission LiFE, and the International Big Cat Alliance.

Touching on the ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, the minister underscored the urgency of effective conflict resolution. "Prime Minister Modi has emphasized that this is not an era of war. Disputes and differences must be settled by dialogue and diplomacy," he said.

He also reiterated India’s long-standing stance on the Palestine issue, advocating for a fair and durable two-state solution to the Middle East conflict.