India, Brazil, and South Africa reaffirmed their commitment to expanding UNSC membership during a meeting at the UN General Assembly, advocating for better representation from developing nations. They raised concerns over global conflicts including the situations in Ukraine and Gaza, reinforcing their dedication to peace, dialogue, and humanitarian issues while highlighting the importance of the IBSA Fund for poverty alleviation.
During the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly held in New York, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar of India, along with Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, convened to discuss the expansion of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The ministers emphasized the necessity of incorporating representation from developing countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America into both permanent and non-permanent membership categories. Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the productive nature of the meeting on social media, stating, “Attended a productive IBSA Foreign Minister’s meeting today alongside FM Mauro Vieira and FM @RonaldLamola. IBSA nations participate in and shape ongoing global discourses on development, SDGs, poverty eradication, multilateralism, and South-South cooperation… Our consultations should intensify as these debates acquire greater urgency.” This meeting continued the legacy of the IBSA Dialogue Forum, formally established in 2003, aiming to unite these three diverse nations, which share multifaceted cultural identities. The joint statement released post-meeting reiterated their commitment to reforming the UNSC to reflect contemporary global realities and to address the legitimate aspirations of African countries for permanent representation. The ministers also expressed shared concerns regarding ongoing conflicts, such as the situation in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for dialogue, de-escalation, and a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Furthermore, the ministers pledged to enhance the IBSA Fund aimed at eradicating poverty and hunger, recognizing it as crucial for South-South cooperation. They looked forward to initiatives like the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in achieving food security and addressing underlying inequalities. In the face of rising geopolitical tensions, the joint statement pronounced the urgency of re-engaging in peace efforts, underscoring the role of dialogue and diplomacy as fundamental tools for conflict resolution. The ministers reiterate their commitment to an evolved form of multilateralism that aligns with the aims of the 2030 Agenda, ensuring a more representative and effective global governance apparatus.
The IBSA forum emerged in 2003 as a collaboration among India, Brazil, and South Africa, designed to foster cooperation among emerging economies and enhance their participation in global governance. Given the significant global shifts over the past two decades, the three nations advocate for reforms within international frameworks, particularly the UNSC, to better reflect the geopolitical landscape of the 21st century. Their unity is grounded in shared challenges such as poverty, hunger, and the necessity for inclusive development, prompting discussions that aim to reshape international dialogue and decision-making.
In conclusion, the meeting of the IBSA ministers reinforces the group’s commitment to expanding UNSC membership to elevate the voices of developing nations in global governance. Their collective approach towards addressing humanitarian crises and poverty reflects a greater commitment to cooperation, sustainable development, and peace. By promoting dialogue and mediation, the IBSA nations aim to navigate contemporary conflicts and foster a more equitable international system.
Original Source: thenewsmill.com
