Jeffrey Sachs Recognises India’s Rising Global Power, Calls for UN Security Council Reform

American economist and geopolitical expert Jeffrey Sachs has described India as one of the world’s four major powers, alongside the United States, China and Russia. He believes the global balance of power is changing and that international stability requires greater cooperation among leading nations rather than dominance by a single country.

Speaking to ANI in Varanasi on November 3, 2026, Sachs said Washington must recognise the growing influence of other major powers and move away from policies that encourage geopolitical confrontation. He warned that the assumption of continued American dominance could create further instability in international relations.

Sachs called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin to promote cooperation among major countries. He emphasised respect for national sovereignty, peaceful diplomatic engagement and avoiding unnecessary military confrontation.

The economist also criticised US President Donald Trump’s trade and foreign policies, particularly tariff measures and the use of military force in international disputes. He argued that economic restrictions and geopolitical tensions could weaken global cooperation and increase uncertainty.

Highlighting the importance of India-China relations, Sachs suggested that stronger cooperation between the two Asian powers could contribute to a more balanced international system. His comments reflect the growing importance of India’s strategic position as it maintains partnerships with the United States, Russia and other countries while following an independent foreign policy.

Sachs also supported India’s long-standing demand for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He argued that the council needs reforms to reflect current geopolitical realities and provide greater representation to emerging global powers. He urged China and other influential countries to support India’s candidature.

The UNSC currently has five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, France and the United Kingdom. India has repeatedly advocated expanding the council to make global decision-making more representative.

Sachs’ remarks underline India’s expanding diplomatic, economic and strategic influence. However, his description of India as one of four global superpowers represents his geopolitical assessment rather than an officially recognised international ranking. The comments add to the wider debate over India’s role in shaping an emerging multipolar world order.