Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized on Wednesday the crucial and special nature of India's relationship with China, urging for a speedy resolution to the ongoing border dispute. In an interview with Newsweek magazine, PM Modi articulated the importance of stable and peaceful Indo-China relations for regional and global peace. He expressed hope for a return to stability and tranquility at the borders through positive and constructive bilateral engagement at diplomatic and military levels.
"I firmly believe we must engage in immediate dialogue about the longstanding situation at our borders, which would enable us to leave any differences behind in our bilateral talks. Stable and peaceful relations between India and China are not only vital for both nations but for the entire world. I am hopeful and confident that through positive and constructive bilateral engagement at diplomatic and military levels, we can reinstate and maintain peace and stability," said Modi.
In the New York-based magazine's interview, the Prime Minister touched upon a wide array of topics including upcoming Lok Sabha elections, relations with Pakistan, the Quad, Ram Temple, and the paramount importance of democracy.
PM Modi Discusses Relations with Pakistan
When questioned about ties with Pakistan, PM Modi stated he congratulated the new Prime Minister of Pakistan on assuming office, highlighting that India has always championed a terror-free environment for fostering peace, security, and prosperity in the region. Speaking on the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Modi avoided commenting on Pakistan's internal affairs.
Speaking on the Quad group, he noted that the United States, Australia, Japan, and India are members of many different groups in various combinations. "The purpose of Quad is not directed against any country. Like SCO and BRICS, Quad, too, is a group of like-minded nations working on a shared positive agenda," Modi explained. The Quad group includes India, the USA, Australia, and Japan.
PM Modi Addresses Criticism of Article 370
Addressing criticism over the revocation of Jammu & Kashmir's special status (Article 370), Modi encouraged a visit to witness first-hand the significant positive transformations on the ground. "Don't just take my or anybody else's word for it. I visited Jammu & Kashmir last month, and for the first time, there's a new hope in people's lives," he said, adding that the public is experiencing the benefits of peace, with tourist visits topping 21 million in 2023, and a notable decrease in terrorist activity. Disruptions of everyday life such as organized strikes and stone pelting, once common, are now things of the past, he proclaimed.
Ram Temple Resonates Throughout Our Sacred Land: PM
Regarding the significance of the newly constructed Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Modi stated that the name of Shri Ram is etched in India's national consciousness. "His life has framed the ethos of our civilization. His name resonates throughout our sacred land. Thus, I visited all the pilgrimage sites associated with Shri Ram during an 11-day special ritual. My journey across different corners of the country showed how deeply Shri Ram is revered in all of us. His return to his birthplace was a historic moment of unity for the nation, culminating centuries of perseverance and sacrifice. When asked to participate in the ceremony, I knew I was representing 1.4 billion people who patiently waited to witness the return of Ram Lala," Modi expressed.
Growing Support for Our Government: Prime Minister
Commenting on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi highlighted his government's excellent track record in fulfilling promises. "By the end of a second term, even the most popular governments tend to lose support. In recent years, discontent towards governments worldwide has grown. India stands as an exception where public support for our government is growing," he commented. Describing India as the "mother of democracy," Modi pointed out that over 60 crores voted in the 2019 general elections, and now over 97 crores are expected to exercise their franchise. More than a million polling stations will be established across India, with voter participation consistently increasing, he noted.
