External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, stating that his leadership has significantly enhanced India's foreign policy. Jaishankar noted that this has elevated New Delhi's global standing and popularity.

During an event in Shimla, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar remarked, "Under PM Modi's leadership, India's foreign policy has brought fame to our country, positioning India to play the role of Vishvaguru in the near future."

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar noted that India has faced complex issues on the India-China border in recent years but is now "strengthening our borders" with modern infrastructure, including in Himachal Pradesh, which borders China.

"The Modi government has significantly increased the budget for infrastructure development on the China border, raising it from Rs 3,000 crore to Rs 15,000 crore. We have built wide, all-weather roads and tunnels to reach the borders across all districts bordering China," Jaishankar said.

Addressing current geopolitical issues, Jaishankar stated, "When India decided to buy cheap Russian crude oil at the start of the Ukraine-Russia war, we faced significant pressure from various global geopolitical entities, but we did not succumb."

"We faced similar pressure from China when we joined the Quad group, but we charted our own course, protecting our interests and succeeding. This was all possible due to the strong leadership provided by our Prime Minister Modi," he asserted.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussed the ongoing general elections in India, highlighting the ten years of credible governance under Prime Minister Modi.

"We are facing challenges from terrorism, but we are responding effectively. It is the responsibility of the people to elect a stable government, which will send a strong message to the world," said Jaishankar.

He emphasised that Indians have opportunities in various sectors across the globe and noted that, for the first time in his four-decade career, India's diversity is being introduced to the world. "It will help boost tourism, especially here in Himachal," he said.

Jaishankar also spoke about the vibrant village programme aimed at strengthening infrastructure in border villages during an informal interaction with journalists in Shimla.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted India's citizen-centric foreign policy, which has garnered UN support. He noted that the country's improved global image due to a decade of growth under Prime Minister Modi.

"Ten years ago, we faced many criticisms abroad. Today, India is recognised for building 30 km of highways and 14 km of railway tracks daily, with eight new airports and two new metro systems each year. This development has transformed our image," Jaishankar said.

He added, "Income taxpayers have increased from 3.5 crore to over eight crore, Provident Fund subscribers have risen by six crore, and the number of colleges and universities has doubled in the last decade."

Image source: ANI