France Backs India’s Permanent UNSC Membership, Recommends Veto Power

New York/Paris: In a strong diplomatic move, France has publicly supported India’s bid for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Paris has also recommended that India be granted veto power, a privilege currently enjoyed only by the five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom.

France stated that its position on UNSC reform has always been consistent. The country emphasized that the reform should also include two seats for Africa, reflecting its demographic and geopolitical significance. France added that the “Group of Four” countries—Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan—should each receive one permanent seat with all associated privileges, including the veto right, in line with the UN Charter.

Why India Isn’t a Permanent Member Yet

The UNSC currently has 15 members: 5 permanent and 10 non-permanent members. Non-permanent members are elected for two-year terms, keeping regional balance in mind. The UNSC was formed in 1945 after World War II, when global power rested in the hands of a few nations.

The council is responsible for international peace and security, including imposing sanctions, sending peacekeeping missions, and authorizing military action. Despite being the world’s largest democracy, a major economy, a nuclear power, and the top contributor to UN peace missions, India has not yet become a permanent member due to disagreements among current permanent members. China, in particular, has opposed India’s bid, while other nations have strategic interests at stake.

India’s Defense and Strategic Partnerships

France’s support comes amid growing defense and strategic cooperation between the two countries. India has purchased 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, strengthening bilateral defense ties.

Meanwhile, Russia has also offered advanced military collaboration to India, including technology transfers and local production of Su-57 fighter jets, ensuring India’s access to crucial parts without disruption from international sanctions. India has already co-developed the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile with Russia and manufactures Su-30MKI jets under license, while also diversifying its advanced weapons procurement from Europe, Israel, and the U.S.

France’s endorsement represents a major diplomatic boost for India’s long-standing UNSC reform efforts, signaling growing international support for New Delhi’s permanent membership.