"Diplomacy Not For Impatient People": S Jaishankar

 

External Affairs Minister of India, S Jaishankar, has expressed optimism about the reform of the United Nations (UN), acknowledging that while the process won't be easy, there's no need for pessimism. He emphasized that significant achievements require time, effort, and extensive negotiations.

In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Jaishankar highlighted the progress made at the recent BRICS summit in Johannesburg, where the declaration included explicit references to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) memberships. He mentioned that the document specifically referred to India, Brazil, and South Africa, indicating that discussions are ongoing and moving forward.

He acknowledged that diplomacy requires patience, likening it to the patience needed in the military. Jaishankar pointed out that the UNSC faces a gridlock on certain issues, and he expressed his belief that the council no longer fully represents the membership.

Jaishankar emphasized the need for representation from populous countries like India, all 54 African nations, and Latin America in the UNSC. He noted that pressure for change is evident within BRICS and suggested that this could lead to the evolution of positions.

Regarding concerns about the G20 potentially overshadowing the UN, Jaishankar cautioned against transposing the problems of one onto the other. He highlighted the unique mandates of the G20 and the UNSC, emphasizing that one cannot substitute for the other.

He concluded by stating that fixing the UN cannot be accomplished by countries seeking alternative solutions outside of the organization. Jaishankar stressed that reforms are necessary to maintain the credibility of the UN and prevent actions being taken outside of its framework.