मिश्र भावनाओं से भरा हुआ ये पल है। प्रणब दा के कार्यकाल का ये राष्ट्रपति भवन का आखिरी दिन है। एक प्रकार से इस समारोह में जब मैं खड़ा हुआ हूं तो ढेर सारी समृतियां उजागर होना बहुत स्वाभाविक है। उनका व्यक्तित्व, उनका करतत्व; इससे हम भलीभांति परिचित हैं। लेकिन मुनष्य का एक स्वाभाविक स्वभाव रहता है, और सहज भी है कि वह अपने भूतकाल के साथ वतर्मान का आकलन करने के मोह से बच नहीं सकता है। हर घटना को, हर निर्णय को, हर initiative को, अपने जीवन के कार्यकाल के साथ तुलना करना बड़ा स्वाभाविक होता है। मेरे तीन साल के अनुभव में मेरे लिए बड़ा अचरज था कि इतने साल तक सरकारों में रहे, सरकारों के निर्णायक पदों पर रहे, लेकिन वर्तमान सरकार के किसी निर्णय को उन्होंने अपने उन भूतकाल के साथ न कभी तराजू से तोला, न कभी उसका उस रूप में मूल्यांकन किया, हर बात का उन्होंने वर्तमान के संदर्भ में ही मूल्यांकन किया; मैं समझता हूं ये एक बहुत बड़ी उनकी पहचान है।
सरकार कई initiative लेती थी, और मेरा ये सब नसीब रहा कि मुझे हर पल उनसे मिलने का अवसर मिलता था, खुल करके बात करने का मौका मिलता था, और बड़े ध्यान से हर चीज वो सुनते भी थे। कहीं सुधार की जरूरत होती तो सुझाव देते थे; ज्यादातर प्रोत्साहन देते थे। यानी guardian के रूप में एक fatherly figure के रूप में राष्ट्रपति की भूमिका क्या होती है, उसको कायदा-कानून से, दायरे से कहीं ऊपर, अपनत्व से, प्यार से और इस पूरे राष्ट्रजीवन के परिवार के मुखिया के रूप में जिस प्रकार का उनका मार्गदर्शन रहता था। मुझ जैसे नए व्यक्ति को, जिसके पास इस तरह का कोई अनुभव नहीं था; मैं एक राज्य में काम करके आया था। ये उन्हीं का कारण था कि मुझे चीजें समझने में, निर्णय करने में उनकी बहुत मदद रही। और उसी के कारण कई महत्वपूर्ण काम पिछले तीन साल में हम कर पाए।
ज्ञान का भंडार, सहजता, सरलता, ये चीजें किसी भी व्यक्ति को आकर्षित करती हैं। लेकिन हम दोनों का लालन-पालन अलग विचारधारा में हुआ, अलग कार्य-संस्कृति में हुआ। अनुभव में भी हमारे; मेरे और उनके बीच में बहुत बड़ा फासला है। लेकिन मुझे कभी ये उन्होंने feel नहीं होने दिया। और वो एक बात कहते हैं कि भाई देखिए मैं राष्ट्रपति जब बना तब बना, आज राष्ट्रपति हूं, लेकिन लोकतंत्र कहता है कि देश कि जनता ने तुम पर भरोसा किया है, तुम्हारा दायित्व है, और मेरा काम है कि तुम इस काम को अच्छे ढंग से करो। राष्ट्रपति पद, राष्ट्रपति भवन और प्रणब मुखर्जी स्वयं, उसके लिए जो भी कर सकते हैं, करेंगे। ये अपने आप में एक बहुत बड़ा संबल था, एक बहुत बड़ा संबल था और इसलिए मैं राष्ट्रपति जी का हृदय से बहुत आभारी हूं।
और मुझे विश्वास है कि उन्होंने इतने बड़े दायित्व में मेरा molding में जो roll किया है वो मुझे आने वाले जीवन में बहुत काम आने वाला है। उनकी हर बात मेरे जीवन में एक पथ-प्रदर्शक के रूप में रहेगी, ऐसा मुझे, मैं खुद feel करता हूं। और शायद जिन-जिन लोगों ने उनके साथ काम किया है, वो सबको ये सौभाग्य प्राप्त हआ होगा। मेरे लिए एक बहुत बड़ी अमानत है, जो अमानत मेरी व्यक्तिगत बहुत बड़ी पूंजी है और इसके लिए भी मैं उनका बड़ा आभारी हूं।
आज यहां कई reports वगैरा submit किए गए। राष्ट्रपति भवन को लोक-भवन बनाना, ये इसलिए संभव हुआ कि प्रणब दा धरती से जुड़े हुए, जनता के बीच से उभरे हुए, उन्हीं के बीच में रहकर अपना राजनीतिक यात्रा करने के कारण; लोक-शक्ति क्या होती है, लोक-भावनाएं क्या होती हैं- उसको उन्हें किताबों में पढ़ने की जरूरत नहीं थी। उसको अनुभव भी करते थे और उसको लागू करने का भी प्रयास करते थे, उसी का कारण था कि भारत का राष्ट्रपति भवन लोक-भवन बन गया। जनता-जनार्दन के लिए एक प्रकार से इसके द्वार खुल गए।
स्वयं इतिहास के विद्यार्थी रहे हैं। और मैंने देखा है कि इतिहास की हर घटना उनकी उंगलियां पर होती हैं, कभी विषय निकालो तो वो date wise बता देते हैं। लेकिन वो ज्ञान को, इतिहास के माहत्मय को आगे कैसे ले जाया जाए और ये राष्ट्रपति भवन में जिस प्रकार से, अभी ओमिता जी पूरा report दे रही थीं, बहुत बड़ा इतिहास के लिए अमूल्य खजाना तैयार हुआ है उनके कार्यकाल में। और मैं कह सकता हूं कि यहां के पेड़ हों, पंथी हो, पत्थर हो; हर किसी के लिए कुछ न कुछ इतिहास है, हर किसी की अपनी विशेषता है और वो सारी किताबों में अब उपलब्ध है।
ये बहुत बड़ा काम यहां हुआ है। और मैं इसके लिए उनके और उनकी पूरी टीम को हृदय से बहुत-बहुत बधाई देता हूं। मैं फिर एक बार प्रणब दा को लम्बी आयु के लिए शुभकामनाएं देता हूं, और उनका उतना लम्बा तवज्जो, लम्बा अनुभव, उनकी नई inning में भी मुझ जैसे लोगों को व्यक्तिगत रूप से, और देश को स्वाभाविक रूप से हमेशा ऐसा उपकारक होता रहेगा, ये मेरा विश्वास है।
फिर एक बार में बहुत-बहुत शुभकामनाओं के साथ आप सबका धन्यवाद।
PM Modi's Global Diplomacy: Strengthening India's Partnerships Across Continents
December 31, 2024
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In recent years, PM Modi has significantly strengthened India's global partnerships through a series of impactful bilateral visits across continents. These visits have been crucial in advancing India’s foreign policy, enhancing strategic cooperation, and promoting economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties with key nations worldwide. From the Gulf to Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa, PM Modi’s diplomatic outreach is a symbol to India’s growing global presence under his leadership.
United Arab Emirates: Strengthening Ties with the Gulf
PM Modi’s visit to the UAE marked his 7th trip in nine years, reflecting the deepening relationship between India and the Gulf nation. During the visit, PM Modi addressed the Indian diaspora at the AHLAN MODI event, a vibrant celebration of the strong cultural and historical ties between the two nations.
PM Modi at the AHLAN MODI Event in the UAE
The visit also marked a milestone with the inauguration of the first Hindu temple in the UAE — the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Abu Dhabi. This temple is a symbol of India’s cultural diplomacy and the growing acceptance of India’s diversity in the Gulf region. The visit reinforced the UAE’s role as a key partner in India’s energy and economic growth, as well as the growing importance of the Indian expatriate community.
Qatar: Renewed Bilateral Cooperation
PM Modi’s visit to Qatar infused “new vigour” into the already robust bilateral ties between India and the Gulf nation. This visit was particularly significant, as Qatar released eight former Indian Navy personnel who had been detained on charges of espionage, a gesture that reflected Qatar's commitment to strengthening ties with India. The visit helped bolster economic cooperation, particularly in sectors like energy, trade, and infrastructure.
PM Modi in Qatar with his counterparts
Additionally, Qatar's investment in India's growing economy was emphasized, opening avenues for enhanced collaboration in the future.
Bhutan: Strengthening Regional Partnerships
A significant aspect of PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan was the inauguration of a state-of-the-art hospital in Thimphu, constructed with Indian assistance.
PM Modi at the inauguration of a state-of-the-art hospital in Thimphu
This move symbolized India’s continued support for Bhutan’s development, enhancing bilateral ties and ensuring India’s strategic influence in the region. Bhutan is an important partner in India's “Neighbourhood First” policy, and this visit further cemented the shared values of peace, stability, and progress between the two nations.
Austria: A Historic Milestone
PM Modi’s visit to Austria in 2024 was groundbreaking, as it marked the first trip by an Indian PM to the country in 41 years. This visit coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Austria. The visit focused on strengthening trade, technology, and cultural ties. Austria’s expertise in renewable energy, engineering, and research was highlighted as a potential area for collaboration.
PM Modi interacted with CEOs in Austria
The visit underscored India’s growing importance in European diplomatic circles and Austria’s role as a partner in India’s development trajectory.
Russia: Reaffirming Strategic Partnerships
In his visit to Russia for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit, PM Modi and President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed the longstanding strategic partnership between the two nations.
PM Modi in Russia for the 16th BRICS Summit
The summit emphasized mutual cooperation in defence, energy, and technology. Russia’s support for India’s defence requirements, including the supply of critical military equipment, continued to be a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. Moreover, both nations agreed to further enhance energy cooperation, particularly in the oil and natural gas sectors, which are crucial for India’s energy security.
Poland: Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
PM Modi’s visit to Poland in 2024 was historic, marking the first trip by an Indian PM in 45 years. The visit coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. During the visit, both India and Poland elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership.
PM Modi Honoured the Fallen Heroes in Poland
Discussions centred around defence cooperation, scientific collaboration, and greater engagement in trade and investment. Poland’s support for India’s entry into global institutions such as the UN Security Council was also a significant aspect of the visit.
Ukraine: Diplomatic Engagement Amid Conflict
PM Modi’s visit to Ukraine was particularly noteworthy, coming at a time when military actions had been suspended by both warring sides. The visit demonstrated India’s commitment to global peace and its willingness to offer humanitarian and technological assistance for post-war reconstruction.
PM Modi delivered humanitarian aid to Ukrainian President
The PM assured Ukraine of India’s support in rebuilding its war-torn infrastructure, reflecting India’s role as a peace-broker in global conflicts. The visit also highlighted India’s position on non-interference and peaceful resolution of disputes.
Brunei: A Milestone in India’s 'Act East' Policy
PM Modi’s visit to Brunei marked the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Southeast Asian nation. The visit coincided with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei. Brunei is a key partner in India’s “Act East” policy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
PM Modi’s visit to Brunei was the first bilateral visit by an Indian PM
The visit focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, energy, and maritime security. Brunei’s strategic location and its importance in regional security made this visit a crucial step in strengthening India’s relationships with Southeast Asian nations.
Singapore: Strengthening Strategic Partnership
PM Modi’s visit to Singapore emphasized the strengthening of India’s strategic partnership with the island nation, particularly in advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and sustainable development. The visit facilitated the growth of synergies between the semiconductor ecosystems of India and Singapore. Both nations explored opportunities to collaborate in research, innovation, and green technologies, which are essential for India’s future economic growth.
PM Modi at the Roundtable with Business Leaders in Singapore
Singapore’s role as a financial hub and a gateway to Southeast Asia made this visit critical for India’s long-term economic ambitions.
Guyana: Reaching Out to the Indian Diaspora
PM Modi’s visit to Guyana was historic as it marked the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over 50 years. The visit was significant for its emphasis on strengthening ties with the Indian diaspora, which has had a deep historical connection with Guyana for over 185 years. During the visit, PM Modi held discussions on giving strategic direction to the India-Guyana relationship, focusing on trade, technology, and infrastructure development.
PM Modi at the 2nd Caricom- India Summit in Guyana
The Prime Minister paid homage to the contributions of the Indian diaspora, underscoring their role in bridging cultural and economic ties between India and Guyana.
Nigeria: Strengthening African Partnerships
PM Modi’s visit to Nigeria in November 2024 was the first by an Indian PM to the West African nation in decades. The visit marked a significant step in strengthening India’s partnership with Nigeria, which is one of the most populous and influential countries in Africa. The visit focused on strategic cooperation, particularly in energy, trade, and security. India and Nigeria agreed to work closely on areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. The visit also underscored the importance of democratic values and pluralism, shared by both nations.
PM Modi interacted with the Indian Diaspora in Nigeria
Kuwait: Enhancing Economic and Cultural Cooperation
PM Modi’s visit to Kuwait was especially significant as it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Gulf nation in 43 years. The visit focused on enhancing economic relations and cultural exchanges. Kuwait, with its strategic location in the Gulf, plays a pivotal role in India’s energy security and economic interests.
PM Modi at the Hala Modi Event in Kuwait
The visit aimed at bolstering collaboration in trade, energy, and investment, reinforcing the historical ties between the two nations. It was also an opportunity to connect with the large Indian diaspora in Kuwait, a key contributor to both the Gulf nation’s economy and the bilateral relationship.
A Global Leader in Diplomacy and Strategic Partnerships
PM Modi’s series of impactful bilateral visits across continents has significantly elevated India’s diplomatic standing and global influence. His efforts have not only strengthened traditional alliances but also fostered new strategic partnerships, positioning India as a key player in global affairs. Through his leadership, India has championed multilateral cooperation, sustainable development, and peaceful conflict resolution, ensuring its active participation in shaping the future of the world. These diplomatic engagements reflect India’s growing prominence on the global stage, laying the foundation for a prosperous and interconnected future.
