Finnish President Alexander Stubb has backed India’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), saying the country should play a larger role in shaping the evolving global order.
Stubb, who is on a four-day visit to India from March 4 to March 7, made the remarks during a joint press briefing with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also said the world could learn from India’s approach to respecting sovereignty and pursuing pragmatic diplomacy.
‘Global Order Is Changing’
Speaking about India’s role in a rapidly evolving world order, Stubb said the country, along with partners in the Global South, would help shape the future direction of international relations.
“The world is changing. We are going through a transformation of the global order, and India, together with its friends in the Global South, will determine the direction this order will take. Today, we discussed security issues in the region. We also spoke about defense matters and conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine. We agreed that ending war is in everyone’s interest. A lasting peace can only be achieved if the principles of the United Nations are respected.”
Support For India’s UNSC Membership
Stubb reiterated that India’s presence in the Security Council would be significant for global governance. He also highlighted the importance of stronger engagement between India and Europe.
“I think a seat on the UN Security Council is very important for India. We also discussed the relationship between India and the EU, and I believe this strategic partnership is important. It’s a good start. I’m accompanied by 20 Finnish companies working in areas ranging from technology to quantum, satellites, networks, food, and green tech.”
Praise For India’s Economic And Strategic Role
The Finnish President described India as one of the world’s most influential countries and emphasised its importance as a strategic partner for Europe.
“India is one of the world’s largest and most influential countries and the world’s largest democracy. As we have seen, you are now a key strategic partner for Europe. You are one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, which we can see here every day.”
‘World Should Become A Little More Indian’
Stubb also commended India’s foreign policy approach, calling it pragmatic and grounded in realism.
“The beauty of your foreign policy is that you are never under any illusions. You have always based your foreign policy on a pragmatic and realistic approach. You have shown the world how important it is to maintain strategic vigilance and safeguard autonomy, while also supporting multilateralism and global cooperation. I personally believe that the world should become a little more Indian.”
