'India deserves permanent UNSC seat': Seychelles backs New Delhi's bid ahead of PM Modi's visit

Seychelles foreign minister Barry Faure on Saturday reaffirmed his country's support for India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), saying New Delhi's global stature, population and contributions to international peace make it deserving of a place at the world's top decision-making body."India deserves a permanent seat at the UN Security Council given its population, global role, and contributions to peacekeeping, maritime security and multilateral diplomacy," he said speaking to ANI.Speaking ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in Seychelles, Faure also called for reforms to the post-World War II global order, arguing that international institutions must better reflect present-day geopolitical realities.'Seychelles fully supports India’Calling for comprehensive reforms of the UN Security Council, Faure said countries like India and regions such as Africa remain underrepresented despite playing significant roles in global affairs."The global order established in 1945 needs reform. International institutions must better reflect today's realities. There is a strong need for more balanced representation, particularly for countries like India and regions like Africa, which currently lack permanent representation in key global institutions," he said.Faure said Seychelles fully supports India's candidature, noting that New Delhi's inclusion would strengthen global balance, peace and multilateral cooperation.Praises India's global roleHe also highlighted India's contributions to international peacekeeping, maritime security and the Non-Aligned Movement. "India has also played a strong role in the Non-Aligned Movement, and its inclusion would strengthen global balance and peace," he said.India has consistently advocated reforms of the UNSC, arguing that the current structure no longer reflects contemporary geopolitical realities.'Excellent' India-Seychelles partnershipDescribing bilateral ties as "excellent", Faure said the relationship dates back to Seychelles' independence in 1976 and has since evolved into a strong strategic partnership."This is an excellent relationship. It started from independence in 1976, forming the foundation of formal relations," he said."It is a strategic partnership between the two countries. We are very happy that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has chosen to visit Seychelles.”PM Modi is on a state visit to Seychelles to participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the country's National Day as the Guest of Honour, with the aim to further strengthening the longstanding ties between the two countries.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.