Bhutan and Portugal have expressed support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Bhutan’s Prime Minister, Lotay Tshering, reiterated his country’s long-standing backing of India’s aspirations, emphasizing the need for UN reform to reflect current global realities ¹. This stance is in line with Bhutan’s historical position, as the country has maintained a deliberate isolationist policy, limiting foreign influence while fostering close ties with India ².

Portugal’s endorsement is significant, considering India-Portugal trade relations are valued at approximately $700 million ³. This backing adds to the growing list of countries supporting India’s UNSC bid, including France, Russia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Brazil, and the United States ⁴ ⁵ ⁶.

India’s candidacy for a permanent UNSC seat has been a longstanding goal, with the country advocating for reforms in the UN and WTO ⁵ ⁶. The G4 nations, comprising India, Japan, Germany, and Brazil, have mutually supported each other’s bids for permanent membership ¹. The UNSC reform aims to make the organization more representative and inclusive, addressing the changing global landscape.

The support from Bhutan and Portugal is crucial, as it underscores the importance of India’s role in regional and global affairs. India has been a non-permanent member of the UNSC for eight terms and is widely regarded as a leader in many ways ⁷. The country’s commitment to global peace, security, and cooperation makes its inclusion in the UNSC a significant step towards a more equitable and representative international order.

The path to UNSC reform remains complex, with varying interests and geopolitical dynamics at play. However, with continued support from countries like Bhutan and Portugal, India’s bid for a permanent seat moves closer to realization, paving the way for a more inclusive and effective global governance structure.