Addressing the gathering attended by over 160 heads of state and government, the prime minister regretted that the United Nations suffered from a "democracy deficit," saying unless it became more representative of the contemporary world, its ability to deliver on Millennium Development Goals would continue to be limited.
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Observing that India has a "special regard" for the UN, Dr Singh likened it to the ancient Indian concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or 'the whole world is one family.' He reminded world leaders that it was this idea of a shared destiny, which encouraged the UN, five years ago, to adopt the Millennium Development Goals.
Photographs: Paresh Gandhi
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