Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Slovak counterpart Robert Fico have reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, expansion of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), and enhanced cooperation with regional groupings, according to the India-Slovakia Joint Statement issued on Monday.
Push for UNSC Reforms
The two leaders stressed the need for comprehensive reforms of multilateral institutions, particularly the United Nations and the UNSC, to make them more representative, inclusive, effective, and reflective of contemporary geopolitical realities. They underscored the urgent need to expand the UNSC in both permanent and non-permanent categories.
India appreciated Slovakia's continued support for its permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UNSC. The leaders also agreed to continue consultations and coordination on their respective candidacies in international organisations and to strengthen cooperation in global forums, including the United Nations.
Nuclear Non-Proliferation and NSG
The two sides discussed the importance of preserving the global non-proliferation architecture, with Slovakia reaffirming its constructive approach towards India's membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). The NSG is a 48-member grouping that regulates global nuclear commerce. Slovakia reiterated its support for India's aspirations to join the NSG during Prime Minister Modi's state visit.
Regional Integration and Connectivity
Under the theme of multilateral cooperation and regional integration, the leaders agreed to support the development of cooperation with regional groupings such as Slavkov 3, Visegrad 4, and the Three Seas Initiative. They emphasised interconnected and mutually beneficial infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity, promoting sustainable economic growth, and strengthening regional integration.
Indo-Pacific and International Law
The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific based on respect for international law, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, including adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
MEA Official's Remarks
Responding to a question from ANI on UNSC reforms, MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George reiterated India's longstanding position on the need for restructuring global institutions. "India believes that it is important to have the reforms in the United Nations. The United Nations is unfortunately stuck in the past. It must reflect the realities of today," he said.
Noting India's contributions to UN peacekeeping operations and its status as the world's largest democracy, George added, "We must reform the United Nations, including the UN Security Council, so that it reflects the realities of today. I'm very happy to note that the Slovakian leadership reaffirmed its commitment to support India in an expanded UN Security Council as a permanent member."
