MEA's Sibi George Welcomes UN Delegation, Highlights India's Approach to Multilateral Cooperation

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Secretary (West) Sibi George welcomed a delegation of Permanent Representatives to the United Nations during a dinner reception held on Sunday as part of their week-long familiarisation visit to India. According to the MEA, George used the occasion to present India's perspective on multilateral cooperation and the role of the United Nations in addressing global challenges. In a post on X, the ministry said the delegation was extended a warm welcome and wished a productive and insightful stay in the country.

The visit comes shortly after External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar formally launched India's campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028–29 term during an event in New York. While outlining India's priorities, Jaishankar stressed the need for a global governance system that better reflects present-day realities. He said India envisions a world that is secure, peaceful and inclusive, where developing nations—particularly those in the Global South—have a stronger voice in international decision-making. He also called for reforms that would make multilateral institutions more representative, effective and capable of addressing emerging global challenges.

The minister said India's approach to its UNSC campaign would be guided by the SHANTI framework—Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust and Integrity. He explained that the initiative focuses on promoting international cooperation, strengthening trust among nations and encouraging dialogue to bridge geopolitical differences.

Jaishankar also underlined India's commitment to modernising UN peacekeeping operations by making them more technology-driven, mission-oriented and prepared for future security challenges. He reaffirmed New Delhi's support for expanding the participation of women in peacekeeping missions and advancing the global Women, Peace and Security agenda.

On maritime security, the External Affairs Minister reiterated India's support for a free, open and rules-based maritime order based on international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He said safeguarding global shipping routes, tackling piracy, protecting seafarers and strengthening humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) efforts would remain among India's key priorities. The interaction with the visiting UN representatives is seen as part of India's broader diplomatic outreach as it seeks to build international support for its UNSC candidacy while reinforcing its vision for a more inclusive and responsive multilateral system.