India's Strategic Plan to Counter Pakistan in the UN Security Council

As the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) kicks off its sessions this January, India is proactively preparing to address potential challenges posed by Pakistan, which has recently assumed a non-permanent seat for the 2025-26 term. Sources indicate that Islamabad may attempt to internationalize the Kashmir issue and leverage the platform to highlight differences with India, particularly concerning sanctions on international terrorists.

India’s Counter-Strategy

New Delhi is strategically working to neutralize Pakistan's moves by leaning on its strong diplomatic ties with key permanent members of the UNSC. India is banking on support from Russia, France, and the United States, countries that have historically backed India on critical global issues. Diplomatic channels have been actively engaged over the past few months, with Indian officials coordinating with these influential members to preemptively address topics that might surface during Council deliberations.

In addition to leveraging its ties with permanent members, India is also looking to work closely with several non-permanent members of the Council. Countries like Algeria, an old African ally, as well as Greece, Denmark, and Slovenia, are expected to play pivotal roles in India’s broader diplomatic strategy. These nations, while not as powerful as the permanent members, can provide critical support in shaping discussions and countering narratives unfavorable to New Delhi.

China's Role: A Key Variable

China, a permanent member of the UNSC and a close ally of Pakistan, remains a crucial factor in India's plans. Traditionally, Beijing has supported Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir and other matters involving India. However, recent developments, including improved ties between India and China following the Kazan Summit, suggest that China might adopt a more balanced approach in upcoming UNSC debates. Diplomatic sources hint that India is cautiously optimistic about maintaining this positive momentum and ensuring that China refrains from fully backing Pakistan's agenda.

Anticipating Pakistan’s Moves

Pakistan’s track record in international forums indicates a likelihood of it raising the Kashmir issue prominently in UNSC meetings. It may also attempt to discuss matters related to sanctions on individuals and groups designated as international terrorists, areas where it has often clashed with India. By using its new position as a non-permanent member, Pakistan aims to amplify its voice on these issues, potentially rallying support from its traditional allies.

India, aware of these intentions, is focusing on presenting a robust case grounded in international law and historical precedents. It plans to highlight Pakistan’s failure to address terrorism within its own borders and its role in fostering regional instability.

Broader Implications

India’s diplomatic efforts in the UNSC are not merely about countering Pakistan but also about reinforcing its position as a responsible global player. New Delhi is expected to showcase its contributions to peacekeeping operations, its commitment to sustainable development goals, and its leadership in addressing global challenges like climate change and counter-terrorism.

In doing so, India aims to garner broader international support, not just from UNSC members but from the global community at large. The country is keenly aware that its actions and alliances in the Security Council could have long-term implications for its aspirations for a permanent seat in the body.

The Road Ahead

As Pakistan begins its two-year term on the Security Council, India’s approach reflects a blend of diplomacy, strategy, and resilience. By forging stronger ties with allies, addressing potential challenges head-on, and promoting its global contributions, India is positioning itself to effectively counter Pakistan’s efforts while enhancing its stature on the international stage.

This unfolding diplomatic battle at the UNSC underscores the complexities of India-Pakistan relations and highlights the role of global alliances in shaping the narratives within one of the world’s most powerful international bodies.