Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has expressed support for India and Brazil’s bids for permanent seats on the UN Security Council, highlighting the need for better representation of the Global South. He criticized Western nations for imposing sanctions and weaponizing the dollar, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and a fairer global order.
At the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterated Russia’s endorsement of India and Brazil’s pursuit of permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He underscored the necessity of enhancing representation for the Global South in the UNSC to foster a more equitable world order. Lavrov asserted, “We are not stepping away from dialogue with the West…A fairer world order undoubtedly requires the expansion of the representation of the Global South in the UN Security Council.” Lavrov further emphasized Russia’s support for the candidacies of both India and Brazil while also recognizing initiatives from the African Union. He criticized potential expansions for Western nations, citing their already excessive representation. Notably, India’s ambition for a permanent seat highlights the nation’s commitment to advocating for the interests of developing countries, an endeavor that has garnered growing international support. During his address, Lavrov condemned Western actions, claiming they undermine globalisation values, particularly through the imposition of sanctions against numerous nations and weaponizing the dollar. He remarked, “The Secretary-General is talking about global cooperation. At the same time, the countries of the West have unleashed a veritable sanctions war against half, if not the majority, of the states in the world…the dollar…has been transformed into a weapon.” In evaluating Ukraine’s situation, Lavrov dismissed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s peace initiatives as “hopeless” and called for a recognition of the factual context surrounding the ongoing conflict. He advocated for a more realistic approach to peace efforts than the proposals presented by Zelenskyy, who had previously outlined a 10-point peace plan.
The discourse surrounding the reform of the United Nations Security Council has intensified in recent years, particularly as nations such as India and Brazil seek permanent membership to reflect the current geopolitical realities. The concept of a more representative UNSC aligns itself with the aspirations of many countries in the Global South, who feel marginalized in global decision-making processes. Russia’s support for India and Brazil is seen as part of a broader strategy of enhancing alliances within these regions, especially in the context of its relationship with the West, which has grown increasingly complex due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.
In summary, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has voiced strong support for India and Brazil’s bids for permanent seats on the UNSC, advocating for greater representation of the Global South. His commentary reflects a critical stance against Western practices in global governance, particularly regarding economic sanctions and the use of the dollar in international relations. Lavrov’s remarks highlight the ongoing discourse on the need for a more balanced and equitable global order that includes the voices of developing nations.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
