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January 22, 2016 | 22:23 IST
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PM Modi addresses the 70th Anniversary of the ECOSOC via video conferencing
ECOSOC is a key pillar of the United Nations structure: PM
The work of the ECOSOC is central to the overall agenda of the United Nations, says PM Modi
Eradication of poverty remains the greatest unfinished business of the 20th century: PM
Guiding philosophy of the ECOSOC must always be the welfare of the poorest of the poor, or 'Antodaya': PM
As long as poverty exists & people across world are deprived of basic amenities, work of ECOSOC won't be complete: PM
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has addressed, through a video message, the special event in New York City, to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
Following is the text of the Prime Minister's address:
President of ECOSOC,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I thank the President of ECOSOC for inviting me to address the special meeting today to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Economic and Social Council.
On this occasion, I extend my sincere greetings and congratulations to all members of United Nations.
Mr. President, Excellencies,
The ECOSOC is a key pillar of the United Nations structure.
Its creation as a distinct part of United Nations is a testimony to the centrality of development in the vision of the founders of the UN.
To achieve a peaceful and prosperous world, we need to put in place, first and foremost, conditions for rapid socio-economic development; improvement in the human condition, and an end to hunger and deprivation.
Excellencies,
India was a proud participant in the creation of this body.
An eminent citizen of India, Arcot Ramaswamy Mudaliar, was a key architect of ECOSOC.
He had the privilege of serving as the first President of ECOSOC at its inaugural session in 1946.
In his opening address to the ECOSOC’s first session, Ramaswamy defined what he saw was the role ECOSOC had to play in subsequent years.
He said and I quote: “On the work of this Council and on its ability to solve intricate economic problems of a complicated nature, depends the chance of achieving real security and peace in the world of the future”. Unquote
The work of the ECOSOC therefore, particularly the manner in which it advances the improvement in the human condition and ensures a life of dignity for all, is central to the overall agenda of the United Nations.
70 years have passed since this body was created. We are now 15 years into the 21st century. But has the ECOSOC managed to fulfill the expectations of our founders?
While we have seen remarkable progress over these 70 years, eradication of poverty remains the greatest unfinished business of the 20th century. It is also the most important unfulfilled objective of the United Nations.
Excellencies,
The 70th anniversary of the ECOSOC could not have come at a more appropriate moment.
The international community has just given to itself a new comprehensive vision of development.
The ‘2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’, presents a valuable opportunity for the UN system to rethink its role and purpose, and make itself more effective.
It is now the responsibility of ECOSOC to rise up to this challenge and contribute to making this Agenda a success.
The 2030 Agenda is a reflection of the challenges faced by poorer countries.
We in the developing world not only have to end poverty and hunger and satisfy the legitimate aspirations of our people for a better life, we also have to do so in a manner that is friendly to the planet and environment.
The developed countries on the other hand, face enormous responsibilities to rapidly move their economies on to a sustainable path, follow sustainable lifestyles and assist developing countries with finance and technologies.
At the same time, we have enormous resources at our command. And technology today presents us with solutions that were unthinkable earlier.
The challenge is to channel the available resources and use technology to tackle the most urgent problems facing us.
I urge you to see this as an opportunity. To rejuvenate the Council, to make it more action oriented, policy relevant and more responsive to the needs and aspirations of our people.
In doing so, the guiding philosophy of the ECOSOC must always be the welfare of the poorest of the poor, or ‘Antyodaya’ in Indian thought.
So long as there is poverty in the world, so long as our people, no matter in which country, remain deprived of basic human amenities, freedoms, rights and opportunities, the work of the ECOSOC will not be complete.
I am confident that ECOSOC will live up to the dreams of the founding fathers of the United Nations.
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.
