Permanent Mission of India
New York
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Working Group on Strengthening and Revitalizing the work of the General Assembly
on 5 March 2026– thematic debate the process for the selection
and appointment of the Secretary General and other executive heads
and the Office of the President of the General Assembly

Statement by Mr. Eldos Mathew Punnoose, Counsellor
5 March 2026

Distinguished co-Chairs and colleagues,

I thank you for convening today’s thematic debate.

2. India fully aligns with the statement delivered by Algeria, on behalf of NAM. In addition, I would like to make the following remarks.

3. Elections for the post of Secretary General happen at a crucial time for the United Nations as it is facing several key challenges. The need for reforming the United Nations is more pronounced than ever in order to make it fit for purpose, equipped to meet the needs, demands and requirements of today and the future. This multilateral organization is also witnessing geo-political fragmentation that adversely affects its ability to effectively deliver on its core functions, particularly in terms of maintenance of international peace and security. It is therefore, imperative that a candidate best suited to discharge the functions as the Chief Administrative Officer is elected as the next Secretary General.

4. As in case of appointments to all key leadership positions in the UN, election to the post of Secretary General must be guided by the foundational principle of geographic balance. Resolution 79/327 and the concept note have clearly outlined various positive steps that enhance predictability and transparency in the process. India notes with appreciation the publication of a vision statement by and webcast interactive dialogues with the different candidates. At this juncture, India underlines its support for greater participation of the UN General Assembly in the election process. India is committed to working with other member states in this endeavour. 

5. Appointments to leadership positions in the various UN Departments are not always made in accordance with the spirit of equitable geographic distribution. The de facto reservation policy for certain Member States in case of some posts has resulted in functional impediments as well as leaving them vacant for considerable periods of time, and even in the event of exigencies. There needs to be just representation of the Global South and developing countries in policy making positions of the UN.

6. President of the General Assembly is a central pillar of the United Nations. As President of the truly universal principal organ of the United Nations, functioning of this office must be strengthened. India has been contributing towards this end through its ongoing support for the Trust Fund. We have also been seconding our diplomats to this office. Our commitment on this front is unwavering, which is clearly manifested in our actions.

7. In closing, India emphasizes that member states must come together with a joint sense of purpose towards strengthening the chief deliberative organ of the UN, the General Assembly. We must continue to build upon the incremental progress that we achieved during the 79^th session which culminated in Resolution 79/327 in the current session.

I thank you co-Chairs.

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