PM presses for expansion of UN Security Council

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today pressed for an early reform of the United Nations, particularly an expansion of the Security Council, noting it must be seen as an impartial, credible and effective world body.

In a statement before leaving for Frankfrut enroute to New York to attend the 66th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), Singh also said efforts by India to promote international peace and security after it became a non-permanent member of the Security Council has enriched the policy making body's effectiveness.

"The United Nations must be seen as an impartial, credible and effective body. I will stress the need for early reform of this unique organization, particularly an expansion of its Security Council," he said.

India is seeking a permanent berth in the Security Council. It became a non-permanent member of this body in January this year after a gap of 19 years.