Closing Remarks during the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of India in the 41^st session of the UPR Working Group (7-18 November 2022) delivered by H.E. Mr. Sanjay Verma, Vice-Minister, Ministry of External Affairs

[Geneva, 10^th November 2022]

Mr. President,

Excellencies,

Distinguished delegates,

On behalf of the delegation of India, I sincerely thank you for your constructive participation and engagement in our Universal Periodic Review. It is encouraging that a large number of Member States took to the floor today.

2.  We found the entire exercise of preparation for and participation in the UPR useful. We have tried to respond to as many issues raised as possible within the limited time frame. We are thankful for your observations as well as recommendations. We will duly reflect on them, in consultation with various stakeholders, including civil society organisations. We value your comments and recommendations which would undoubtedly be taken into consideration by my Government in delineating next steps for further advancing the goal of protection of human rights of our people.

3.  India remains deeply committed to multilateralism, the UN charter and its founding principles. In our tenure as a member of the Security Council which comes to an end this year, we have acted as a bridge on some serious but divisive issues confronting the Council. As we begin the G-20 presidency next month, we are sensitive to the challenges faced by developing countries. India will work with other G-20 members to address serious issues of debt, of economic growth, food and energy security and particularly, of environment. The reform of governance of multilateral financial institutions will continue to be one of our core priorities.

4.  Let me conclude by reiterating that the Government of India’s abiding commitment for the promotion and protection of human rights of our people, including providing good governance and realising the inclusive and sustainable development for the welfare of our people. As an ancient civilization, which is reclaiming prominence, India suggests that diversity can coexist and prosper together. As the world’s largest democracy, India is committed to the highest standards of human rights. Unlike my colleague from the UK, we have no reason today to refer to cricket and we thank you all for participating in this UPR.