Exclusive: India Backs Sri Lanka’s Wickremesinghe for UN Top Post

by Our Correspondent in Washington DC

India has launched a diplomatic initiative to promote former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe for a top United Nations post, preferably the Presidency of the UN General Assembly, according to reliable sources who spoke with Sri Lanka Guardian under the condition of anonymity. This move aligns with India’s broader ambition to secure a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, a goal that Wickremesinghe has recently begun actively defending on the international stage.

India’s push to elevate Wickremesinghe within the UN is seen as part of its long-term strategy to strengthen its position in global governance. By backing a seasoned statesman with extensive diplomatic experience, New Delhi aims to consolidate its influence within the UN system. Wickremesinghe, known for his pragmatic leadership and international outreach, has started advocating for India’s rightful place as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, reinforcing the country’s status as a rising global power.

A senior diplomat familiar with the matter told Sri Lanka Guardian, “India is making significant efforts to ensure Ranil Wickremesinghe’s candidacy for the Presidency of the UN General Assembly. This move is not just about Sri Lanka; it is part of India’s wider geopolitical strategy to establish a stronger foothold in the United Nations.”

The UN is currently preparing for a series of key transitions in its leadership. The position of the UN General Assembly President, which rotates annually among member states, is set for new elections in mid-2025 for the 80th session. Meanwhile, discussions on the next UN Secretary-General, whose term ends in 2026, are already gaining traction. India’s support for Wickremesinghe comes as part of a broader campaign to reinforce its diplomatic leverage within these high-profile transitions.

Additionally, India continues to press for reforms within the UN Security Council, arguing that the current permanent membership—limited to the United States, the United Kingdom, China, France, and Russia—does not reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21st century. With Wickremesinghe now vocally advocating for India’s claim, New Delhi sees a strategic opportunity to advance its agenda.

Since the completion of his tenure as Sri Lanka’s President in 2024, Wickremesinghe has remained an influential figure in global diplomacy. He has engaged with various international forums, emphasizing the need for Security Council reforms and underscoring India’s role in global peace and security.

A UN-based official told Sri Lanka Guardian, “Wickremesinghe’s experience in handling economic crises and diplomatic negotiations makes him a strong candidate for the UN General Assembly Presidency. His advocacy for India’s permanent Security Council seat further aligns him with a significant power bloc in international politics.”

Ranil Wickremesinghe’s political career spans over four decades, marked by multiple stints as Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister before eventually serving as President. Following the unprecedented economic crisis that led to the resignation of Gotabaya Rajapaksa in 2022, Wickremesinghe assumed the presidency at a critical juncture.

During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in stabilizing Sri Lanka’s economy, securing a $3 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and implementing necessary fiscal reforms to lift the country out of bankruptcy. His leadership helped restore investor confidence and reposition Sri Lanka on the path to economic recovery.

As India pushes for Wickremesinghe’s elevation within the UN, his track record of diplomatic engagements, crisis management, and economic reform could strengthen his candidacy. While formal nominations for the next UN General Assembly President are yet to be confirmed, India’s backing suggests that Wickremesinghe could emerge as a formidable contender in the coming months.