New York: In a significant statement at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay reiterated his country’s firm support for comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), specifically advocating for the inclusion of India and Japan as permanent members to reflect contemporary global realities.
Delivering Bhutan’s address to the General Assembly, Prime Minister Tobgay emphasised the need for the United Nations to evolve into a body that is not only representative but also results-oriented.
He stated: “Bhutan believes in a United Nations that is representative, responsive, and effective. We seek multilateralism that delivers results, not just resolutions. That is why Bhutan supports reform of the United Nations, including the reform of the Security Council, with the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent membership. A reformed Security Council must include deserving nations, such as India and Japan, alongside other capable and leading countries, to reflect today’s complex realities.”
This is not the first time Prime Minister Tobgay has voiced support for India’s bid for a permanent seat at the UNSC. In his previous statements, he highlighted India’s robust economic growth, diplomatic leadership, and increasing role in the Global South as strong qualifications for its inclusion in a reformed Security Council.
Bhutan has consistently advocated for UNSC reforms, arguing that the current structure is outdated and unrepresentative. Tobgay reiterated this position in past remarks, stating that the Security Council in its current form is “a relic of the past” and must be updated to meet “the current geopolitical and economic landscape.”
“The United Nations must evolve to meet the realities of today’s world. The Security Council, as it stands, is a relic of the past. We need a Council that reflects the current geopolitical and economic landscape. Bhutan has long advocated for the reform of the Security Council to make it more representative and effective,” he had previously said.
By renewing his call for reforms and backing nations like India and Japan, Tshering Tobgay has added Bhutan’s voice to the growing global consensus demanding a more balanced and inclusive global governance framework.
IANS
