Elon Musk backs India's permanent UNSC seat bid — Should Pakistan be concerned?

"The problem is that those with excess power don't want to give it up," said Musk in a post on X

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Elon Musk, Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX and Tesla and owner of Twitter, gestures as he attends the Viva Technology conference dedicated to innovation and startups at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre in Paris, France, June 16, 2023. —Reuters
Elon Musk, Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX and Tesla and owner of Twitter, gestures as he attends the Viva Technology conference dedicated to innovation and startups at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre in Paris, France, June 16, 2023. —Reuters

Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO and X owner has thrown his support behind India's pursuit of a permanent seat at the UN Security Council (UNSC), triggering apprehensions in Pakistan, a staunch opponent of this demand due to its belief that India does not deserve a place in such a crucial decision-making body.

Musk raised the topic, noting powerful nations' reluctance to relinquish their positions and expressing support for Africa's collective push for permanent membership in the UN, as reported by MyIndMakers.

In a post on X, Musk shared his thoughts on UN reform, stating: "There needs to be a revision of the UN bodies. The problem is that those with excess power don't want to give it up. 

It is absurd that India, despite being the most populous country on Earth, does not have a permanent seat on the Security Council. In my opinion, Africa collectively should also have a permanent seat."

The demand for India's permanent UNSC seat has long been a contentious issue with Pakistan. The UNSC holds a pivotal role in global peace and security, and India's aspiration for a permanent seat reflects its desire for increased global influence.

Observers suggest Pakistan fears India's veto power could impede discussions on critical issues, including the Kashmir conflict, and potentially isolate Pakistan diplomatically. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has advocated for the organisation to adapt to the modern world, emphasising the need for diverse representation in the Security Council.

India, a G4 member advocating for UNSC reform, has garnered growing global support. Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar expressed confidence in India's rightful UNSC seat, noting the changing global perception of India as a legitimate international player.