Committed to PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW
Vol. 5 Num 190 Sun. December 05, 2004  
   
International


Moscow now backs India's UNSC berth with veto power


Russian President Vladimir Putin has clarified that India should have veto powers as a permanent member in an expanded UN Security Council, External Affairs Ministry spokesman said yesterday.

"In his meeting today with Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and Leader of the Opposition LK Advani, President Putin categorically rejected the interpretation given by some newspaper reports on his remarks on Friday about veto powers in an expanded Security Council," he said.

He said Putin had emphasised the need of retaining the instrument of veto as a means of ensuring the effectiveness of the UN Security Council.

In extending full support to India's candidature, Putin felt that India, as a new member should have the full rights of permanent membership, including the right of veto, the spokesman said.