Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and ‘SAGAR Vision,’ emphasizing that in his third term, India will continue to work towards the peace, progress, and prosperity of the region in close partnership with neighboring countries. These efforts align with India’s broader goal of achieving ‘VIKSIT BHARAT’ by 2047. Modi made these comments during meetings with leaders from India’s neighborhood and the Indian Ocean region who attended the swearing-in ceremony of the new government at Rashtrapati Bhavan last evening.
The ceremony was attended by Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Seychelles Vice-President Ahmed Afif, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, and Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. These leaders congratulated Modi on taking oath for a historic third consecutive term. Modi emphasized the importance of deepening people-to-people ties and enhancing connectivity within the region. He also reiterated India’s commitment to amplifying the voice of the Global South on the international stage.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet for the visiting dignitaries. President Murmu, in her welcome address, conveyed her wishes to PM Modi and highlighted that India’s democratic process is not only a source of pride for its citizens but also an inspiration for millions worldwide. The Ministry of External Affairs noted that the participation of these leaders underscored India’s strong bonds of friendship and cooperation within the region.
Dr. S. Jaishankar, who served as the External Affairs Minister in the previous Modi government and has been reappointed to the new Cabinet, met with the visiting foreign leaders this morning to discuss bilateral ties.
