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This is an archive article published on January 14, 2015
Ban Ki-moon meets Pranab, discusses terror, UN reforms
He pointed out that India was the second largest donor to the Democracy Fund, next only to the US.
At Rashtrapati Bhavan, Tuesday.
United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon met President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday, where Mukherjee emphasised that the UN is in urgent need of reform for its own credibility and legitimacy of its decisions.
Drawing attention to the recent incidents of terror in Peshawar and Paris, the President said terrorism was no longer a debating issue. He said terrorists engage in wanton destruction and show no respect for borders or values and emphasised that the international community must assert itself and tackle the problem.
Pointing out that India became a member of the UN in 1945 before gaining Independence, the Mukherjee said the Indian Armed Forces participate in 10 out of the 16 UN peacekeeping missions with 8,000 plus troops and police personnel. India is firm in its commitment to the UN Charter and supports the UN system.
Responding to the President, the UN Secretary General said India is a critically important global power, which is why he regularly visits the country. He also agreed that the international community should take firm action on terrorism.
He pointed out that India was the second largest donor to the Democracy Fund, next only to the US. He also congratulated India for the measures being taken for gender empowerment and appreciated that 25 per cent of the Cabinet were women.
Against criminalising homosexuality
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon opposed criminalising homosexuality, saying it breeds intolerance by violating basic rights to privacy and freedom. “I staunchly oppose criminalisation of homosexuality.
These laws breed intolerance. We have to fight for the equality of all members of our human family regardless of any differences, including sexual orientation,” Ban said at an event to mark the 70th anniversary of United Nations. ENS
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