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India and Iran are not new friends. Our dosti is as old as history: PM Modi

Published By : Admin | May 23, 2016 | 13:49 IST
We can never forget that Iran was among the first countries to come forward in support when earthquake struck Gujarat in 2001: PM Modi
India is proud to have stood with the people of Iran during your difficult times: PM
Bilateral agreement to develop Chahbahar port, availability of about US$ 500 million from India for this purpose an important milestone: PM
Trilateral Transport and Transit Agreement with participation of Iran, India and Afghanistan will be a historic occasion: PM Modi
India and Iran also share a crucial stake in peace, stability and prosperity of our region: PM

Your Excellency President Rouhani,

Friends,

Thank you,

Excellency for your warm and wise words.

I am also grateful to you for the gracious hospitality given to me and my delegation. On behalf of the 1.25 billion Indians, I extend warm greetings to the friendly people of Iran. Through ages, the beauty and richness of the Persian heritage has attracted the world to Iran. For me, visiting Iran, is indeed a great privilege.

Excellency,

India and Iran are not new friends. Our dosti is as old as history. Through centuries, our societies have stayed connected through art and architecture, ideas and traditions, and culture and commerce. As friends and neighbours, we have shared interest in each other’s growth and prosperity, and joys and sorrows. We can never forget that Iran was among the first countries to come forward in support when earthquake struck my state, Gujarat, in 2001. Similarly, India is proud to have stood with the people of Iran during your difficult times. I compliment the leadership of Iran for their far-sighted diplomacy.

Excellency,

We had last met in Ufa in 2015. Your leadership and the clarity of your vision have deeply impressed me. In our meeting today, we focused on the full range of our bilateral engagement. We exchanged views on the emerging regional situation and global issues of common concern. The agenda and scope of our partnership is truly substantial. The outcomes and agreements signed today open a new chapter in our strategic partnership. The welfare of our people is guiding our broad based economic ties. Expanded trade ties, deeper connectivity, including Railways partnerships in oil and gas sector fertilizers education and cultural sphere are driving our overall economic engagement. The bilateral agreement to develop the Chahbahar port and related infrastructure, and availability of about US$ 500 million from India for this purpose, is an important milestone. This major effort would boost economic growth in the region. We are committed to take steps for early implementation of the agreements signed today.

Friends,

Later today we are going to sign the trilateral Transport and Transit Agreement with participation of Iran, India and Afghanistan. It will be a historic occasion. It will open new routes for India, Iran and Afghanistan to connect among themselves. India and Iran also share a crucial stake in peace, stability and prosperity of the region. We also have shared concerns at the spread of forces of instability, radicalism and terror in our region. We have agreed to consult closely and regularly on combating threats of terrorism, radicalism, drug trafficking and cyber crime. We have also agreed to enhance interaction between our defence and security institutions on regional and maritime security.

Friends,

The past history of our ties has been rich. President Rouhani and I would leave no stone unturned to work for its glorious future. Our friendship will be a factor of stability in our region. Later today, I look forward to calling on His eminence the Hon’ble Supreme Leader to advance our ties further.

Excellency Rouhani,

I look forward to welcoming you in India to carry forward the agenda of our engagement Where we are now and where we could be is most beautifully said in a couplet from Ghalib. Let me end with it:

जनूनत गरबे नफ्से-खुद तमाम अस्त

ज़े-काशी पा-बे काशान नीम गाम अस्त

[Means: Once we make up our mind, the distance between Kaashi and Kaashan is only half a step]

I once again sincerely thank you, Excellency for inviting me to Iran.

I also thank you all.

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PM Modi's Global Diplomacy: Strengthening India's Partnerships Across Continents
December 31, 2024

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.