Text of the PM's Remarks on the Commissioning of Coast Ship Barracuda

Published By : Admin | March 12, 2015 | 15:28 IST

Hon’ble Prime Minister Sir Aneerood Jugnauth, distinguished guests,

To our naval personnel from India, our guardian of the seas, who are here today – my special greetings to you.

19 PM MODI unveiling of plaque for Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel Barrac (5) It is a great honour to commission the Barracuda today in the service of the National Coast Guard of Mauritius.

Thank you for giving me this privilege. Thank you for choosing India as your partner.

This ship has made a long journey – from Kolkata across the great arc of Indian Ocean to this beautiful shore.

Generations ago, people from India charted that course to a new destination and a new life.

Today, Barracuda brings with her the goodwill and greetings of the people of India.

She represents our unique trust and confidence.

She reflects our partnership that has stood the test of time.

She is a symbol of our shared commitment to peace and security in Indian Ocean- our common maritime home.

Barracuda is a beautiful ship. She is also very capable; and built to specifications of Mauritius.

Now, she sails proudly with the flag of Mauritius. She will protect your islands and your waters. She will be there to help in times of distress and emergencies.

But, she will do more than that. She will also help make our Indian Ocean safer and more secure.

In doing so, Mauritius will fulfill an important international responsibility because, the Indian Ocean is critical to the future of the world. This Ocean bears two-thirds of the world`s oil shipments, one-third of its bulk cargo; and half of its container traffic. Over three-fourths of its traffic goes to other regions of the world.

The vast Indian Ocean Region hosts over 40 states and nearly 40% of the world`s population. It touches Australia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, West Asia and the eastern seaboard of Africa. It sparkles with the gems of island states.

Think of the civilisational links, yet great diversity in this vast region! Consider the vast opportunities that it holds!

Today, the world speaks of 21st century driven by the dynamism and the energy of Asia and the Pacific. But, its course will be determined by the tides of the Indian Ocean. This is why Indian Ocean is at the centre of global attention more than ever before.

19 PM MODI unveiling of plaque for Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel Barrac (6)

We also see growing global stakes and presence in the Ocean. Even in this changing world, the oceans hold the key to its fortunes. And, we will all prosper when the seas are safe, secure and free for all.

To ensure this will be our greatest collective responsibility. But, we will also have to rise to other challenges that are not uncommon in our region.

We have seen the tragedy of tsumanis and cyclones.

Terror has visited us from sea. Piracy has taken toll of lives and trade on a scale that seemed beyond belief in modern era.

Illegal fishing and oil spills hurt our economies. We all feel the rising impact of climate change on our coasts and islands.

We have also seen that instability and turmoil in coastal and island states can have profound impact on security on the seas.

India is at the crossroads of Indian Ocean.

Since Lothal in Gujarat became one of the earliest seaports in the world, India has had a long maritime tradition.

Our cultural footprints stretch across Asia and Africa. We see this in our strong Diaspora across oceans.

The seas forged links of commerce, culture, and religion with our extended neighbourhood across several millenniums.

Our more recent history has focused our attention on our continental neighborhood.

But, India has been shaped in more ways by the seas around us.

Today, 90% of our trade by volume and 90% of our oil imports take place through sea. We have coastline of 7500 km, 1200 islands and 2.4 million square kilometers of Exclusive Economic Zone.

India is becoming more integrated globally. We will be more dependent than before on the ocean and the surrounding regions.

We must also assume our responsibility to shape its future.

So, Indian Ocean Region is at the top of our policy priorities.

Our vision for Indian Ocean Region is rooted in advancing cooperation in our region; and, to use our capabilities for the benefit of all in our common maritime home.

It means many things.

One, we will do everything to safeguard our mainland and islands and defend our interests.

Equally we will work to ensure a safe, secure and stable Indian Ocean Region that delivers us all to the shores of prosperity.

And, our capabilities will be there for those struck by the ocean`s fury. Or, caught in distress on the seas.

Second, we will deepen our economic and security cooperation with our friends in the region especially our maritime neighbours and island states.

We will also continue to build their maritime security capacities and their economic strength.

19 PM MODI unveiling of plaque for Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel Barracud (2)

Three, collective action and cooperation will best advance peace and security in our maritime region. It will also prepare us better to respond to emergencies.

That is why, in 2008, India promoted the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium. Today, it brings together 35 navies of the region. Our goal is to deepen our mutual understanding on maritime challenges; and, strengthen our collective ability to address them.

We also support efforts to strengthen our regional mechanisms for maritime cooperation – from dealing with piracy terrorism and other crimes; to marine safety and natural disasters.

India has also started maritime security cooperation with Maldives and Sri Lanka and we hope that Mauritius, Seychelles and other nations in the region will also join this initiative.

Four, we also seek a more integrated and cooperative future in the region that enhances the prospects for sustainable development for all.

We must promote greater collaboration in trade, tourism and investment; infrastructure development; marine science and technology; sustainable fisheries; protection of marine environment; and, overall development of Ocean or Blue Economy.

To me the blue chakra or wheel in India`s national flag represents the potential of Blue Revolution or the Ocean Economy. That is how central the Ocean Economy is to us.

For those who live by the ocean, climate change is not an issue of debate but a serious threat to existence. We must assume leadership in our region and call for a more concerted and fair global action to address the challenge of climate change.

Our Indian Ocean Rim Association can be an important instrument for pursuing our vision for a sustainable and prosperous future in the region.

We often define regional groupings around landmass. The time has come for a strong grouping around the Indian Ocean. We will pursue this with new vigour in the years ahead.

There can be no better place to host the Secretariat for IORA than Mauritius. I am pleased that the Secretary General is from India.

Five, those who live in this region have the primary responsibility for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean.

But, we recognize that there are other nations around the world, with strong interests and stakes in the region.

India is deeply engaged with them. We do this through dialogue, visits, exercises, capacity building and economic partnership.

Our goal is to seek a climate of trust and transparency; respect for international maritime rules and norms by all countries; sensitivity to each other`s interests; peaceful resolution of maritime issues; and increase in maritime cooperation.

We seek a future for Indian Ocean that lives up to the name of SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region.

We should be inspired by Monsoon, which nurtures and connects us all in region.

We will strive to unite our region in partnership, as we were once in geography.

19 PM MODI unveiling of plaque for Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel Barrac (8)

An Ocean that connects our world should become the pathway of peace and prosperity for all.

It is no coincidence that I speak of our hopes for the Indian Ocean Region in Mauritius.

Our partnership with Mauritius is among our strongest maritime relationships in this world.

Our partnership will grow. We will together build our capabilities. We will also train and patrol the seas together.

But, the foundation of this partnership is larger. It is our shared values and a common vision.

It is our willingness to look beyond our own domain to assume our responsibility for the region.

Mauritius is a key leader for a secure and sustainable future for the Indian Ocean. We in India are proud to be your partner.

Thank you very much, and wish you all the best.

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The best days of India–Namibia relations are ahead of us: PM Modi in the parliament of Namibia
July 09, 2025

Honourable Madam Speaker,
Rt. Honourable Prime Minister,
Honourable Deputy Prime Minister,
Honourable Deputy Speaker,
Esteemed Members of Parliament,
My dear brothers and sisters,

Omwa Uhala Po Nawa?
Good Afternoon!

It is a great privilege to address this august House – a temple of democracy. I thank you for giving me this honour.

I stand before you as a representative of the mother of democracy. And, I bring with me warm greetings from 1.4 billion people of India.

Please allow me to begin with congratulating each and every one of you. People have given you the mandate to serve this great nation. In politics, as you know, that is both an honour, and a great responsibility. I wish you success in fullfiling the aspirations of your people.

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Friends,

A few months ago, you celebrated a historic moment. Namibia elected its first woman President. We understand and share your pride and joy, because in India we also proudly say - Madam President.

ये भारत का संविधान है, जिसके कारण एक गरीब आदिवासी परिवार की बेटी आज दुनिया के सबसे बड़े लोकतंत्र की राष्ट्रपति हैं। ये संविधान की ही ताकत है, जिसके कारण मुझ जैसे गरीब परिवार में जन्मे व्यक्ति को लगातार तीसरी बार प्रधानमंत्री बनने का अवसर मिला है। जिसके पास कुछ भी नहीं है, उसके पास संविधान की गारंटी है !

It is the power of India’s Constitution that a daughter from a poor tribal family is today the President of India. It is this very Constitution that gave someone like me, the chance to become Prime Minister. Not once, not twice, but three times. When you have nothing, the Constitution gives you everything.

Distinguished Members,

As I stand in this august house, I pay tribute to the first President and founding father of Namibia, President Sam Nujoma who passed away earlier this year. He once said, and I quote:

"Our achievement of independence imposes upon us a heavy responsibility, not only to defend our hard-won liberty, but also, to set ourselves higher standards of equality, justice and opportunity for all, without regard to race, creed or colour.”

His vision of a just and free nation continues to inspire us all. We also honour the memories of the heroes of your freedom struggle - Hosea Kutako, Hendrik Witbooi, Mandume Ya Ndemufayo, and many others.

The people of India stood proudly with Namibia during your liberation struggle. Even before our own Independence, India raised the issue of South West Africa at the United Nations.

We supported SWAPO in your quest for freedom. In fact, New Delhi hosted their first ever diplomatic office abroad. And, it was an Indian, Lieutenant General Diwan Prem Chand, who led the UN peacekeeping force in Namibia.

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India is proud to have stood with you - not just in words, but in action. As the well known Namibian poet Mvula ya Nangolo wrote, and I quote:

"When freedom comes home to our country, We will proudly erect the finest monument in memory.”

Today, this very parliament, and this free and proud Namibia, are living monuments.

Distinguished Members,

India and Namibia have much in common. We both fought colonial rule. We both value dignity and freedom. Our Constitutions guide us to uphold equality, liberty, and justice. We are part of the Global South, and our people share the same hopes and dreams.

Today, I am deeply honoured to receive Namibia’s highest civilian award as a symbol of the friendship between our peoples. Like the tough, and elegant plants of Namibia, our friendship has stood the test of time. It quietly thrives in even the driest seasons. And, just like your national plant Welwitschia Mirabilis, it only grows stronger with age and time. On behalf of 1.4 billion people of India, I once again thank the President, the Government and the people of Namibia for this honour.

Friends,

India attaches great importance to its historic relations with Namibia. We not only value our ties from the past, but we are also focused on realising the potential of our shared future. We see great value in working together on Namibia’s Vision 2030 and the Harambee Prosperity Plan.

And, at the heart of our partnership are our people. Over 1700 Namibians have benefited from scholarships and capacity building programmes in India. We are excited to support the next generation of Namibian scientists, doctors, and leaders. The Centre of Excellence in IT, the India Wing at the JEDS Campus of the University of Namibia, and training in defence and security – each one of them reflects our shared belief that capacity is the best currency.

Speaking of currency, we are thrilled that Namibia is among the first countries in the region to adopt India’s UPI - Unified Payments Interface. Soon, people will be able to send money faster than one can say "Tangi Unene.” Soon, a Himba grandmother in Kunene, or a shopkeeper in Katutura, will be able to go digital with just a tap - faster than a Springbok.

Our bilateral trade has crossed 800 million dollars. But, like on the cricket field, we are just warming up. We will score faster and score more.

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We are honoured to support Namibia’s youth through the new Entrepreneurship Development Centre. It will be a place where business dreams can get mentorship, funding and friends too.

Health is another pillar of our shared priority. India’s health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat covers nearly 500 million people. But India’s concern for health is not limited to Indians alone.

India’s mission - "One Earth, One Health,” views health as a shared global responsibility.

During the pandemic, we stood with Africa – providing vaccines and medicines, even when many others refused to share. Our "Aarogya Maitri” initiative supports Africa with hospitals, equipment, medicines, and training. India is ready to supply Namibia with a Bhabhatron radiotherapy machine for advanced cancer care. This machine, developed in India, has been deployed in 15 countries, and has helped nearly half a million patients in different countries with critical cancer care.

We also invite Namibia to join the Jan Aushadhi programme for access to affordable and quality medicines. Under this programme, cost of medicines in India has been brought down by 50 to 80 percent. It is helping more than 1 million Indians daily. And so far it has helped patients save nearly 4.5 billion US dollars in healthcare costs.

Friends,

India and Namibia have a powerful story of cooperation, conservation and compassion, when you helped us in reintroducing Cheetahs in our country. We are deeply grateful for your gift. I had the privilege of releasing them in the Kuno National Park.

They have sent a message for you: इनिमा आइशे ओयिली नावा Everything is fine.

They are happy and have adapted well in their new home. They have grown in numbers as well. Clearly, they are enjoying their time in India.

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Friends,

We are working together through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Today Namibia has joined the Global Biofuels Alliance, and the International Big Cats Alliance.

As we look to the future, let us be guided by Namibia’s national bird, the African Fish Eagle. Known for its sharp vision and majestic flight, it teaches us to:

Soar together,
Scan the horizon,
and, boldly reach out for opportunities!

Friends,

In 2018, I had laid out ten principles of our engagement with Africa. Today, I reaffirm India’s full commitment to them. They are based on respect, equality, and mutual benefit. We seek not to compete, but to cooperate. Our goal is to build together. Not to take, but to grow together.

Our development partnership in Africa is worth over 12 billion dollars. But its real value is in shared growth and shared purpose. We continue to build local skills, create local jobs, and support local innovation.

We believe that Africa must not be just a source of raw materials. Africa must lead in value creation and sustainable growth. That is why we fully support Africa’s Agenda 2063 for industrialisation. We are ready to expand our cooperation in Defence and Security. India values Africa’s role in world affairs. We championed Africa’s voice during our G20 presidency. And we proudly welcomed the African Union as a permanent member of the G20.

Friends,

भारत आज अपने विकास के साथ ही दुनिया के सपनों को भी दिशा दे रहा है। और इसमें भी हमारा जोर ग्लोबल साउथ पर है।

In the 20th century, India’s independence lit a spark - one that inspired freedom movements across the world, including here in Africa. In the 21st century, India’s development lights a path, showing that the Global South can rise, lead, and shape its own future. The message is - You can succeed - on your own terms, without losing your identity.

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यह भारत का संदेश है — कि आप अपने रास्ते पर चलकर, अपनी संस्कृति और गरिमा के साथ, सफलता पा सकते हैं।

For this message to echo louder, we must act together. Let us create a future defined:

- Not by power, but by partnership.
- Not by dominance, but by dialogue.
- Not by exclusion, but by equity.

This will be the spirit of our shared vision –

"From Freedom to Future” - स्वतंत्रता से समृद्धि, संकल्प से सिद्धि।

From the spark of Independence to the light of shared progress. Let us walk this path, together. As two nations forged in the fires of freedom, let us now dream and build a future of dignity, equality and opportunity. Not just for our people, but for all of humanity.

Let us move forward as partners for peace, progress and prosperity. Let our children not only inherit the freedom we fought for, but the future we will build together. As I stand here today, I am full of hope. The best days of India–Namibia relations are ahead of us.

Friends,

I conclude by wishing Namibia great success in co-hosting the 2027 Cricket World Cup. And, if your Eagles need any cricket tips, you know whom to call !

Thank you, once again, for this honour.
Tangi Unene!