Obama backs India’s UN bid

PRESIDENT Barack Obama yesterday backed India for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, a dramatic diplomatic gesture at the end of his first visit there.

Obama made the announcement in a speech to India’s parliament on the third and final day of his stay. In doing so, he fulfilled what was perhaps India’s dearest wish for Obama’s trip here. India has sought permanent Security Council membership for years.

“The just and sustainable international order that America seeks includes a United Nations that is efficient, effective, credible and legitimate,” Obama said. “That is why I can say today – in the years ahead, I look forward to a reformed UN Security Council that includes India as a permanent member.”