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India backs Global South voice in UN reform talks
During the meeting held on April 24, George reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to multilateralism
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Mohammed Jaffer - Tue, 28, Apr 2026
- 01:00 EDT
- 19
Sibi George, Secretary West Minister of External Affairs in United nations is currently active in New York, conducting high-level diplomatic meetings at the United Nations, including: Meetings with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to discuss India's commitment to multilateralism, UN reforms, and amplifying the voice of the Global South, United Nations. / Mohammed Jaffer Snapsindia
India’s External Affairs Ministry Secretary, Sibi George, met United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in New York to discuss reforms of the international organization, with a focus on amplifying the voice of the Global South.
During the meeting held on April 24, George reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to multilateralism—an approach that Guterres has consistently emphasized, even as global cooperation faces increasing challenges. The two leaders also discussed India’s initiatives to support the development of the Global South, including programs such as the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.
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As part of his visit, George paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue in the U.N. complex. He also held discussions with several senior U.N. officials and diplomats. India’s long-standing role as one of the largest contributors to U.N. peacekeeping operations featured prominently in these engagements.
In meetings with Atul Khare and Khaled Khiari, George reiterated India’s steadfast commitment to peacekeeping. He also discussed the U.N.’s financial challenges with Chandramouli Ramanathan, focusing on the organization’s overall financial situation and the funding of peacekeeping missions.
Talks with Guy Ryder centered on institutional reforms, including the UN80 Initiative, which aims to ensure the organization remains effective and relevant as it approaches its 80th anniversary.
At a candidates’ forum for prospective successors to Guterres, George posed a question to Michelle Bachelet regarding strategies to achieve development goals in the Global South. Bachelet emphasized the need for member states to prioritize these goals politically and ensure adequate financial resources.
George also advocated for greater representation of the Global South in the U.N. Security Council, particularly in permanent membership, during Intergovernmental Negotiations on council reform. Highlighting the historical injustice faced by African nations at the time of the U.N.’s founding, he reiterated India’s support for Africa’s claim to permanent seats and noted shared perspectives between India and African countries on reform.
At the Economic and Social Council Forum on Financing for Development, George called for reforms to the international financial system to make it more inclusive, equitable, and development-oriented. He stressed the need to address the approximately $4 trillion funding gap faced by developing countries in achieving the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals.
During his visit, George also participated in the high-level segment of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly and delivered India’s national statement at the 2026 ECOSOC Forum on Financing for Development.
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