Tenzin Lobsang

Delivered India's statement at the UNGA Plenary on the use of the Veto Highlighted: ➡️ Veto is a responsibility, not a tool of narrow political expediency. We note that two of the P5 have not exercised veto for over three and a half decades. Most vetoes or threats of vetoes have emanated from three of the P5. ➡️ Piecemeal reforms will not work. All five clusters of UNSC reform must be addressed together. ➡️ Veto initiative of 2022 was seen as a harbinger of change. However, actual record of large number of vetoes cast since UNGA 76/262 tells a contrary story. ➡️ Unwritten consensus rules enable de facto vetoes in Council decisions and sanctions committees. ➡️ Consensus cannot become a disguised veto in the Inter Governmental Negotiations (IGN). ➡️ India aligns with the Common African Position: As long as the veto exists, all permanent members must enjoy equal rights. ➡️ New long-term seats without veto powers would create second-class members and perpetuate inequity. All permanent members, including new ones, must enjoy equal rights. ➡️ Begin text-based negotiations with clear timelines. The UNSC must reflect today's realities, not those of 1945.