By Dr Arvind Kumar

During his recent visit to India, the UN Secretary-General Mr Ban Ki-moon said that he expected India to play a greater role in world affairs and ‘lead by example’ in helping countries in the Arab world to achieve democratic stability. He further added: “India is a very valued and strong partner of the UN and I really want to reinforce such a strong partnership.” The UN chief said his message to India would be that he expected the world's largest democracy to ‘play a greater role’ in global affairs. The UN Chief said: “India should speak out and also help those countries in transition in the Arab world and North Africa. India can show and lead by example and share its experience in the democratisation process. All in all I am very happy with current level of partnership between UN and India. But we are working (to have an) even better, even more and even stronger relationship. That is the main purpose (of the visit).”

As one of the leading non-aligned movement and G-77 member as well as an emerging power in world economy, India has been playing a great role in UN Security Council in addressing peace and security particularly in addressing the Arab spring and democratisation process in West Asia and North Africa. Mr Ban praised India's contribution to UN peacekeeping operations across the world, taking note of the sacrifices made by Indian men and women during discharge of their duties. India is one of the largest troop contributing countries, having contributed over 100,000 troops to various peacekeeping missions across the world. He added: “We are very grateful for such a great contribution and many such sacrifices by Indian men and women while discharging their duties. These are very noble sacrifices.”