India Pushes for Reformed Multilateralism on 81st UN Day
EAM S Jaishankar calls for reformed multilateralism on 81st UN Day and celebrates Major Abhilasha Barak's prestigious UN award.
On the occasion of the 81st United Nations Day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly reaffirmed India's enduring commitment to the India UN Charter commitment and the overarching goals of the United Nations. Taking to X, the Minister emphasized that while India remains dedicated to the organization, there is an urgent necessity for "reformed multilateralism" to ensure the UN reflects the actual geopolitical and social realities of the modern world.
Championing the Global South
Minister Jaishankar highlighted that India will continue to be a vocal advocate within the international body for several key pillars: international peace, global security, and enhanced cooperation across borders. A significant part of this vision involves championing the aspirations of the Global South, ensuring that the voices of developing nations are heard and integrated into global decision-making processes.
United Nations Day is celebrated every year on October 24, commemorating the date in 1945 when the UN Charter officially entered into force after being ratified by the majority of signatories, including the five permanent members of the Security Council.
A Triumph for Women in Peacekeeping
Adding a note of national pride to the celebrations, the External Affairs Minister drew attention to the exceptional achievements of Indian personnel in international missions. He proudly announced that Major Abhilasha Barak has been honored with the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for 2026.
This prestigious accolade recognizes Major Barak's exemplary service in UN peacekeeping operations. The award specifically celebrates efforts to integrate and advance gender perspectives within military peacekeeping, shedding light on the critical and courageous contributions made by women serving in international peace missions.
Nuclear Science and Global Partnerships
India's engagement with the UN extends beyond diplomacy and peacekeeping. During the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, India reiterated its dedication to the peaceful and secure use of nuclear science and technology.
Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo, Member of Parliament and Leader of the Indian Parliamentary Delegation, addressed the Assembly regarding the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report. She underscored the agency's pivotal role in sustainable development, capacity-building, and the application of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
Impact of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund
The scale of India's international cooperation was further evidenced during the ninth annual India-UN Development Partnership Fund event held on October 22. Representatives from various nations expressed their gratitude for India's development assistance, noting how the fund supports sustainable initiatives tailored to their specific national priorities. Among the countries that acknowledged this support were:
- Laos
- Sri Lanka
- Tanzania
- Moldova
- Morocco
- Mozambique