Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and owner of X, has expressed support for India’s bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council (UNSC), triggering concerns in Pakistan, a staunch opponent of this demand. Musk raised the issue, mentioning that powerful nations were reluctant to relinquish their positions. He also endorsed Africa’s collective aspiration for permanent membership in the UN, as reported by MyIndMakers.
In a post on X, Elon Musk discussed the need for a revision of UN bodies, criticizing the reluctance of powerful countries to share their influence. He deemed it absurd that India, the most populous country globally, does not have a permanent seat on the Security Council. Musk also advocated for a collective permanent seat for Africa.
The demand for a permanent UNSC seat has long been a contentious matter between India and Pakistan. The UNSC plays a pivotal role in global peace and security, with its decisions holding significant implications for nations worldwide. India’s call for a permanent seat reflects its aspirations for increased global influence.
Observers note that Pakistan is apprehensive about India gaining a permanent UNSC seat, as it would grant veto power and potentially impede Pakistan’s ability to address crucial issues like the Kashmir conflict. There are concerns that India might use its enhanced influence to diplomatically isolate Pakistan and undermine its regional standing.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the organization to adapt to the modern world. He questioned the absence of a permanent African member in the Security Council, emphasizing the need for institutions to reflect the current global order. Guterres highlighted the September Summit of the Future as an opportunity to discuss global governance reforms.
India, a member of the G4 countries advocating for UNSC reform and permanent membership, is gaining increasing global support. Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar expressed confidence in India’s rightful place in the UNSC, citing shifting global sentiments.
While acknowledging the rarity of such opportunities, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of seizing them and highlighted the evolving perception of India as a legitimate player on the international stage.