New Zealand Backs India’s Bid for Permanent Seat at the UN Security Council

 New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has reaffirmed his country's strong support for India's bid to become a permanent member of a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Monday, Luxon emphasized India's crucial role in the Indo-Pacific region and its growing influence in a multi-polar world.

India’s Central Role in Global Affairs

During his address, Luxon highlighted that India’s geopolitical and economic significance makes it a key player in ensuring stability and security in the Indo-Pacific. He stated that New Zealand recognizes India's leadership and supports its rightful place at the UNSC.

"Countries like India play such a central role globally, and New Zealand supports New Delhi getting a permanent seat in a reformed UN Security Council," Luxon said.

Ensuring a Rules-Based Indo-Pacific

Luxon underscored the importance of maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the face of increasing power struggles in the region. His remarks come amid growing concerns over China's assertiveness in maritime disputes.

"We must go forward with great confidence as we live at the heart of the world's most exciting and dynamic region—the Indo-Pacific," Luxon remarked. He stressed that New Zealand is committed to ensuring that no single country dominates the region and that all nations have the freedom to make their own choices free from external interference.

Strengthening India-New Zealand Relations

Luxon also spoke about the evolving nature of New Zealand’s strategic partnerships, with India being a key focus. He acknowledged India’s "geo-strategic heft" and expressed his country's commitment to enhancing cooperation with New Delhi.

"As New Zealand looks to protect and advance our interests in the Indo-Pacific, we can only do so alongside partners like India that have a significant role to play," Luxon stated.

The Quad and Regional Cooperation

Luxon described the Quad—a security partnership between India, the United States, Japan, and Australia—as an "important vehicle" for promoting stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. While he clarified that New Zealand does not intend to join the Quad, he expressed willingness to collaborate with its initiatives.

Additionally, he praised ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) for its role in maintaining regional peace and economic stability.

Modi-Luxon Bilateral Talks

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Christopher Luxon held discussions on a wide range of topics, including regional security, maritime cooperation, and economic collaboration.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to an open, stable, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, based on the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and adherence to international law. They also reiterated their support for freedom of navigation and overflight, as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

A Strengthened Strategic Partnership

The meeting between the two leaders signifies a step forward in strengthening India-New Zealand ties. With growing global challenges, their discussions reaffirmed a shared vision for a free and fair international order, making India's bid for a permanent UNSC seat even more significant.

Luxon’s remarks at the Raisina Dialogue mark a pivotal moment in India’s diplomatic efforts, as global support for its inclusion in the UNSC continues to gain momentum.