The editorial “A significant visit” (Nov. 10) was right in saying that “it would be extremely unwise” for India “to dovetail its wider goals with the imperatives of American ‘leadership' in Asia.” Depending a lot on any country, especially the U.S., will prove suicidal in the long run. As for U.S. support to a permanent Indian seat on a reformed United Nations Security Council, it may backtrack if India, at any time, refuses to toe its line in the next two years as a non-permanent member. Acting in a manner that does not irritate the Americans will be a huge challenge for India.
C.J. Nelson,
Coimbatore
India's bid for a permanent seat on the UNSC is a rightful claim by a secular democratic country of a 100 billion. The goodwill India enjoys among the comity of nations as a rapidly developing economy and a mature democracy with political stability is among the many reasons that make its claim genuine. President Obama's attitude, however, reminded one of U.S. muscle-flexing on important issues. For all the charisma and oratorical skills he exhibited, Mr. Obama reinforced the intimidatory nature of the American foreign policy approach.
N. Sekar,
Salem
According to media reports, Mr. Obama's support for a permanent Indian seat on a reformed UNSC drew a loud applause from our MPs. They perhaps missed the fact that the assurance is a post-dated cheque, which cannot be realised now. The account holder can cancel or stop payment whenever he wants. Look at China. The West boycotted it, even declined to recognise its existence. But China did not flinch or whinge for a permanent seat in the Security Council. It strengthened its economy and reached a stage when nobody could ignore it; it developed its relations with countries in Asia, Africa and elsewhere; and remained steadfast in its opposition to the U.S. With the support of the other countries, including India, China occupied its rightful place in the Security Council as a permanent member.
Venuturupally Suryam,
Secunderabad
Mr. Obama's gestures during his visit and his promise of support for a permanent seat for India on the reformed UNSC were significant. The trade agreements and other exchanges are not a one-way traffic. India too will benefit from them. To expect the U.S. to address our concerns on Pakistan is wishful thinking.
K.S. Thampi,
Chennai
