PM Modi’s message to China: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday told the leaders of 14 Pacific island nations, quoting the age-old proverb that a friend in need is a friend indeed and that those who are considered trustworthy are “not by our side in times of need”. stand”, which is being seen as An oblique reference to China.
In his address to leaders at a summit in Port Moresby, Modi said India stood by the Pacific island nations in challenging times and told them they can consider New Delhi as a “reliable” development partner as it is their The priorities and approach of its cooperation is based on human values.
The Prime Minister, who arrived in Papua New Guinea on Sunday on the second leg of his three-nation tour, also underlined the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific for Pacific island nations and said India respects the sovereignty and integrity of all. countries.
Modi assures island nation to trust India without hesitation
In his remarks at the FIPIC (Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation) summit, Modi assured the island nations that India is ready to share its capabilities and experiences with them “without hesitation” and that “we With you all the way.”
The prime minister’s remarks in Papua New Guinea’s capital city come amid China’s aggressive behavior in the region as well as efforts to expand its influence in the Pacific island nations.
He said, “People we considered trustworthy didn’t stand by us in our time of need. During these challenging times, an old saying has proved true: ‘A friend in need is a true friend'”. ” Talking about the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global challenges.
He said, “I am glad that India stands with its Pacific Island friends in this challenging time. Be it vaccines or essential medicines, wheat or sugar, India has been helping all partner countries to the best of its capabilities.”
In his address, he said that the world has passed through difficult times of COVID-19 pandemic and many other challenges and their impact has been felt mostly by the countries of the Global South.
“Climate change, natural disasters, hunger, poverty and various health-related challenges were already there. Now, new issues are emerging. Disruptions are being created in the supply chain of food, fuel, fertilizers and pharmaceuticals,” he said.
Free, Open and Inclusive Indo-Pacific
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed India’s strong support for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. “We share your belief in multilateralism. We support a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. We respect the sovereignty and integrity of all countries,” he said.
Modi said the “voice of the global south” should resonate strongly in the UN Security Council as well. “To that end, reforming international institutions — must be our shared priority.” “I had discussions with Australia, the US and Japan in Hiroshima as part of the Quad. The dialogue has a special focus on the Indo-Pacific region. In the Quad meeting, we decided to set up a Radio Access Network (RAN) ) in Palau,” he said.
“In a multilateral format, we will enhance partnership with Pacific Island countries,” Modi said. Modi told the Pacific island nations that India is ready to share its capabilities and experiences with them without any hesitation. “Be it digital technology or space technology, health security or food security, climate change or environmental protection, we are with you in every way,” he said.
(with inputs from agencies)
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