We would be proud: Turkiye backs India for permanent seat at UN security council

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday expressed his support for India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Speaking at a press conference on the last day of the G20 Summit, Erdogan said, "A country like India being there on the UN Security Council, we would be proud. But as you know, the world is bigger than...larger than five."

The council currently consists of five permanent members - China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

However, Erdogan proposed a rotational system that would allow all 195 member countries of the United Nations to potentially serve on the council.

"When we say the world is larger than five, what we mean is that it's not only about the US, UK, France, China, and Russia. We propose a rotational mechanism where potentially each and every member, every one of those 195 countries can potentially become a member," Erdogan said, as quoted by news agency ANI.

In addition to his remarks on the UNSC, Erdogan also highlighted the strong trade relationship between Turkiye and India.

He identified India as one of Turkiye's greatest trade partners in South Asia and expressed optimism about the potential for further economic cooperation between the two nations.

"India is our greatest trade partner in South Asia. And we have great potential to enjoy primarily in the field of economy and many others..." Erdogan said, thanking India for “a gracious and very successful term of presidency”.

Erdogan also thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his hospitality during the summit, stating, "I would like to thank PM Modi for the gracious hospitality that was shown to me, my spouse and my entire Turkish delegation".