Moscow now backs India's UNSC berth with veto power

"In his meeting today with Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and Leader of the Opposition LK Advani, President Putin categorically rejected the interpretation given by some newspaper reports on his remarks on Friday about veto powers in an expanded Security Council," he said.

He said Putin had emphasised the need of retaining the instrument of veto as a means of ensuring the effectiveness of the UN Security Council.

In extending full support to India's candidature, Putin felt that India, as a new member should have the full rights of permanent membership, including the right of veto, the spokesman said.