In a significant diplomatic move, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish presented his credentials to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, assuring him of India’s unwavering commitment to revitalizing the United Nations. Taking over as India’s Permanent Representative to the global body, Harish emphasized the need for reform and revitalization within the organization, signaling India’s active engagement with key issues.
Shortly after the credential ceremony on Monday, Ambassador Harish wasted no time and made a strong case before the Security Council. He advocated for major troop-contributing countries to be involved in peacekeeping operations’ decision-making processes. This push highlights India’s stance on bringing active participants to the forefront of such crucial discussions, aiming to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the UN’s peacekeeping efforts.
As part of his preparation for this significant assignment, Harish had already embarked on rounds of consultations with various diplomats. His discussions focused on issues of mutual concern and collaboration, aligning with India’s goals and fostering partnerships. This comes in the lead-up to a major summit starting on September 22, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to participate.
Harish took to social media platform X after presenting his credentials, providing a glimpse into his conversation with Secretary-General Guterres. He stated that both agreed on the need to reform and strengthen multilateralism across political and economic domains. This, they believe, is essential to address contemporary global challenges and harness emerging opportunities. Harish further assured Guterres of India’s steadfast commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, towards reforming multilateralism and revitalizing the UN.
Harish met Philemon Yang, the incoming President of the General Assembly later this month, in another significant diplomatic engagement. India assured the former Prime Minister of Cameroon of its support in his new role, thereby reinforcing India’s engagement with global leadership and its influence in multilateral diplomacy.
Ambassador Harish arrives at this pivotal role with a wealth of experience, having served in various high-profile diplomatic positions. His previous assignment as India’s Ambassador to Germany has been particularly noteworthy. With 34 years of experience, he has represented India across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States. Notably, he has a deep understanding of the issues related to Gaza, which is currently a major topic of concern at the UN. Harish had previously served as India’s representative to the Palestine Authority in Gaza City and was also involved with the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine.
Throughout his diplomatic career, Harish has held key positions, including Ambassador to Vietnam, and postings in Houston, Riyadh, and Cairo, where he acquired fluency in Arabic. His diverse experience spanning different regions positions him well to represent India at the UN during these challenging times.
Upon his arrival at the UN on Thursday, Harish paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi with a floral offering at his statue on the UN campus, a gesture symbolizing India’s enduring commitment to peace and non-violence. Following this, he engaged in several high-level meetings, including with Dennis Francis, President of the General Assembly, and Amandeep Singh Gill, the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology. Francis later expressed his gratitude for India’s continued support during his presidency in a post.
Harish continued his diplomatic engagements the following day, meeting with Yamazaki Kazuyuki, Japan’s Permanent Representative to the UN. They discussed the “Special Strategic and Global Partnership” between India and Japan, a key G4 member advocating for the expansion of permanent membership of the Security Council. India, alongside Japan, Brazil, and Germany, has been a strong proponent of reforming the Security Council to better reflect the current geopolitical landscape.
Another significant meeting took place with Sergio Franca, Brazil’s Permanent Representative, who currently presides over the G20 group, a role Brazil took over from India last year. The ongoing partnership between these G4 nations remains critical to India’s strategy within the UN.
Harish also met with Osama Abdelkhalek, Egypt’s Permanent Representative, to discuss the peace process in Gaza. Egypt has played a pivotal role in mediating the conflict, and Harish’s meeting with Abdelkhalek further solidified India’s active involvement in peace and diplomacy efforts in the region. According to a post by India’s Mission on X, both diplomats agreed to collaborate closely within the UN framework to address these pressing issues.
With his extensive diplomatic background and proactive engagements, Ambassador Harish has already made a mark in his new role, setting the tone for India’s continued leadership and participation in global governance reforms at the United Nations.
