Resolution Introduced In US House Of Representatives To Support India’s Security Council Membership

Two influential Democratic lawmakers, including an Indian-American, today introduced a legislation in the United States House of Representative to support India's permanent membership to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Introduced by Congressman Ami Bera, Vice Ranking Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and longest-serving Indian-American in Congress, and Congressman Frank Pallone, founder of Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, the resolution would put the House officially on record in support of India's bid. Currently, it has seven original cosponsors.

"As the world's oldest democracy and the world's largest democracy, the US and India share common values and a growing partnership on many fronts, especially defence cooperation," said Bera. "India plays a critical role as a strategic partner for the US and is a pillar of stability in South Asia. The five permanent members of the UNSC reflect the world as it was 60 years ago, and it's time we recognise India's role increasing global prosperity," he said.

Bera said securing a permanent spot for India on the UNSC would strengthen democracy around the world.

"At a time when international relations are being redefined, we should acknowledge and empower those nations that share our enduring core values," Pallone said.

Pallone said it was in the interests of the US and the world to have a UNSC whose members combine military strength with respect for democracy and pluralism, and an appreciation of the dangers posed by rogue states and terrorist groups.

"India belongs on the UNSC and it is imperative that Congress makes this clear to the Trump administration and the world," he added.

The UNSC still reflects the world as it was in 1945 when the United Nations was created, a Congressional statement said. Despite the fact that the UN has grown from 51 member nations at its inception to nearly 200, the Security Council has not grown to reflect these changes. There are currently five permanent members of the council, including the US, the United Kingdom, Russia, China and France. The bill was introduced on the last day of the UN General Assembly session. (PTI)