Kuwait Backs India’s Bid for Permanent Seat on UN Security Council

Kuwait has voiced its support for India’s long-standing bid to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Tareq Albanai, Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to the UN and Co-Chair of the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on UNSC reform, referred to India as a “main player on the world stage” and said it would be a strong candidate if the Council is expanded.

Speaking at a press briefing on Security Council reforms, Albanai highlighted his visit to India with fellow Co-Chair Axel Marschik of Austria, noting their discussions with Indian leaders. Both Kuwait and Austria are currently leading the UN’s ongoing negotiations on how to reshape the Council.

“The key to reform is ensuring better representation. India, given its global influence today, clearly fits that vision,” Albanai said. “If the Security Council is expanded to between 21 and 27 members, India will certainly be a strong contender—but any final decision will depend on achieving consensus among all 193 UN member states.”

Support for India’s permanent membership was also reiterated by France earlier this month. As it assumed the presidency of the UNSC in April, the French Embassy in India reaffirmed its commitment to reforms that reflect the current global order and advocated for India’s inclusion as a permanent member.

France posted on social media: “To reflect today’s world, France reiterates the need for a #UNSC reform that also gives India a permanent seat.”

India has been campaigning for a permanent seat on the UNSC to better represent the interests of the developing world. In recent years, its push has gained traction among several influential countries.

Currently, the UNSC includes 15 members—five permanent ones (China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US) with veto power, and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms by the General Assembly.