Excellency, Li Keqiang,
Members of the Press,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me start by expressing my deep gratitude to President Xi, Premier Li and the people of China for the exceptional welcome and hospitality.
Iam very grateful to President Xi for his special gesture of hosting me in Xian; and, for showing me the city's extraordinary heritage. It is a treasure of the world.
Xian is also a symbol of our ancient spiritual and cultural links. I havea personal connection with Xian through Monk XuanZang. He visited my hometown 1400 years ago.
I am pleased to visit China in the first year of my Government.This is one of our most important strategic partnerships.
The reason is obvious. The re-emergence of India and China and their relationship will have a profound impact on the two countries and the course of this century.
Our relationship has been complex in recent decades.
But, we have a historic responsibility to turn this relationship into a source of strength for each other and a force of good for the world.
We are committed to set a new direction between the two largest Asian countries.
I believe that my discussions with President Xi and Premier Li have advanced our relationship in that direction.
Our conversations were candid, constructive and friendly. We covered all issues, including those that trouble smooth development of our relations.
I stressed the need for China to reconsider its approach on some of the issues that hold us back from realizing full potential of our partnership. I suggested that China should take a strategic and long term view of our relations. I found the Chinese leadership responsive.
On the boundary question, we agreed that we continue to explore a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable resolution. We both reiterated our strong commitment to make all efforts to maintain peace and tranquility in the border region.
I found sensitivity to our concerns on this issue; and, interest in further intensifying confidence building measures. I also reiterated the importance of clarification of Line of Actual Control in this regard.
I sought tangible progress on issues relating to visa policy and trans-border rivers. I also discussed some of our regional concerns.
We agreed that as we move ahead, we should be sensitive to each other's interests; strengthen mutual trust and confidence; continue to manage our differences with maturity;and, seek solutions to outstanding issues..
Our decision to enhance strategic communication and coordination on our region is especially significant.
Bilateral cooperation was a very important part of our discussion. We have set a high level of ambition for our economic partnership. We see enormous bilateral opportunities and many similar challenges, like urbanization.
We are pleased with the progress on the commitments from the Summit last September.
This includes cooperation in the Railways, where we have identified specific projects, and the two Chinese industrial parks in Gujarat and Maharashtra. I am pleased that the two chief ministers are here with me.
Both leaders were very supportive about increased Chinese participation in our Make in India mission and infrastructure sector. In Shanghai tomorrow, we will see over twenty ventures in the private sector take concrete shape.
President Xi and Premier Li were very receptive to the specific concerns I had raised on our growing trade deficit. We look forward to early impact on the ground. We have agreed to create a high-level task force to develop a strategic road-map to expand economic relations. It will cover a broad range of areas including Infrastructure, IT, Pharma, Agriculture and Manufacturing.
An area of high priority for us is people-to-people contacts. Indians and Chinese don't know each other well, much less understand each other.
We have decided to take the relationship out of the narrow confines of governments in the national capitals to states, cities and our people.
For the first time, India has launched a State and Provincial Leaders' Forum with any country. This is consistent with my firm commitment to cooperative federalism in India.
This is the “Year of India” in China; the next one will be the “Year of China” in India. This will expand tourism between our two countries.
We are establishing a Centre for Gandhian and Indian Studies in Shanghai, a Yoga College in Kunming and a bilateral Think-Tanks Forum.
The Nathu La route for Indian pilgrims to visit Kailash Mansarovar will become operational in June. I want to thank China for that.
Our decision to open a consulates in Chengdu and Chennai reflects growing mutual confidence and shared commitment to expand our relationship.
These steps will help make our relationship more broad-based and people-centric.
Finally, we have many common global and regional interests. For example, we have a shared interest in the outcome of the international climate change negotiations. We are both trying to strengthen regional connectivity.
Terrorism is a shared threat. Instability in West Asia matters to both of us. Peace and progress in Afghanistan benefits us both. I am confident that our international partnership will deepen.
Today, we have signed over 20 agreements, covering diverse areas of cooperation. This shows the depth and maturity of our relationship and the positive direction of our partnership.
This has been a very productive and positive visit.
I look forward to working with President Xi and Premier Li. I have welcomed President Xi's proposal to hold regular summits to realize our vision for the relationship.I have also invited Premier Li to visit India at an early date.
I look forward to Shanghai tomorrow. Thank you. Thank you, very much.
Published By : Admin |
May 15, 2015 | 10:23 IST
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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.
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