- US government reacts after Elon Musk calls India’s exclusion from UNSC “absurd.”
- US State Department spokesperson reaffirms support for UN reforms, including Security Council changes.
- Elon Musk advocates for India and Africa’s inclusion as permanent UNSC members, highlighting global attention to the issue.
The US government has addressed concerns raised by Tesla CEO Elon Musk regarding India’s exclusion from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). At a recent press briefing, the US State Department’s Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel reiterated the country’s support for UN reforms, including changes to the Security Council. Patel emphasized the need to modernize the UN to reflect the realities of the 21st century world.
Elon Musk has been vocal about India’s absence from the UNSC, describing it as “absurd” in his social media posts. He also highlighted the underrepresentation of Africa and advocated for both regions to have permanent seats on the Security Council. Musk’s remarks have reignited discussions about the need for reforms within the UN, particularly regarding representation and decision-making processes.
In India, the issue has gained political significance, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) pledging to pursue a permanent UNSC seat in its election manifesto. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has expressed optimism about garnering global support for India’s inclusion, acknowledging the complexities involved in navigating international relations to achieve this goal. The debate underscores the growing recognition of India’s role in global affairs and the need for equitable representation within international institutions.
At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies.
Problem is that those with excess power don’t want to give it up.
India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd.
Africa collectively should…
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 21, 2024