Finland President Alexander Stubb’s address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resonated strongly with India’s long-standing demand for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), highlighting overlapping views on multilateralism, legitimacy, and global governance reforms.

During the 80th session of UNGA, Stubb emphasized that multilateral institutions still reflect the realities of 1945 and stressed the need for reform to match today’s multipolar world. “The composition of the UN still largely reflects the world of 1945. As the world has changed drastically, so should the decision-making at the UN,” he said, aligning closely with India’s advocacy for UNSC reform.

Stubb also highlighted the balance between values, interests, and power in foreign policy—a framework central to Indian diplomacy. He underscored that transactional foreign policies must be grounded in enduring principles, mirroring India’s approach in climate negotiations, Indo-Pacific partnerships, and trade diplomacy.

The Finnish President’s speech also recognized the rise of the Global South and the shifting power dynamics toward the South and East, reinforcing India’s role as a voice for developing nations. Stubb further defended sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the prohibition of the use of force, which align with India’s stance on cross-border terrorism, border disputes, and global stability.

Experts note that Stubb’s address signals a rare convergence of European and Indian perspectives on global governance. By emphasizing reforms, legitimacy, and multipolarity, India can leverage Finland’s arguments to strengthen its call for UNSC reform and highlight the perspectives of the Global South in shaping a fairer international order.