PM Modi’s UNGA address, following the UN's adoption of a ‘Pact for the Future,’ underscores India's commitment to peace

In a powerful address at the United Nations General Assembly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised the urgent need for global peace and called for comprehensive reforms in top international bodies. Speaking at the “Summit of the Future” held at the UN headquarters in New York, Modi stated, “reform is the key to relevance.” His message resonated deeply amidst the complex global landscape marked by emerging conflicts and ongoing challenges. PM Modi articulated that the true success of humanity lies in collective strength, advocating for unity rather than conflict. He declared, “for world peace and development, reform is essential for global organisations.” He was clearly hinting at the need for revamping the United Nations itself. This call for reform is particularly poignant given the multitude of challenges facing the international community today, ranging from terrorism to new fields of conflict such as cyber threats, maritime disputes, and space exploration. Modi stressed that “global action must match global ambition,” highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to tackle these pressing issues. His message of peace comes on the heels of the UN General Assembly's adoption of a “Pact for the Future,” designed to address the challenges of the 21st century, including climate change, human rights, and conflict.

This pact, however, was met with resistance from seven nations, led by Russia, which is currently embroiled in armed conflict with Ukraine. Russia’s representatives expressed dissatisfaction with the agreement, arguing that it failed to adequately include diverse perspectives and stifled negotiations. Dmitry Polyansky, Russia’s First Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN criticised the pact, stating, “The United Nations had infringed upon its own principles to pander to a group of delegations from the ‘beautiful garden,’ who have usurped the talks from the very beginning.” This remark underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions that challenge global unity. Despite these challenges, PM Modi’s address at the UN showcases India's increasing influence on the world stage. By advocating for reforms and prioritising global peace, India positions itself as a key player in international diplomacy. Modi's leadership not only reflects India's aspirations for a more equitable global order but also underscores its commitment to addressing contemporary challenges through collaboration and dialogue. As the world faces an array of complex issues, Modi's vision of reform and peace serves as a crucial reminder that the path forward must be paved with collective action, mutual respect, and a commitment to the principles of democracy and justice. In this pivotal moment, India stands ready to lead and contribute to a more stable and harmonious global community. India has also gained prominence as a peace maker and could emerge as a major negotiator in world arena.