Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his address to the Indian diaspora in Paris, reaffirmed the pivotal role of the global Indian community in shaping India's global footprint. He hailed the expatriate community for brilliantly mirroring India's core values on foreign soil.
Paris: A City of Lights and Colors
In his speech, PM Modi said, "Paris is a city of lights, colours, ideas and innovation." He praised the Indian diaspora for adding to its vibrancy through India's rich cultural diversity. Addressing members of the Indian community, Modi noted that people from every corner of India are represented in Paris, including Tamils, Punjabis, Gujaratis, Marathis, and Bengalis. He remarked that the diaspora has brought new colors to the city and serves as a reflection of India's unity in diversity.
India's Aspiration-Driven Era
Shifting focus to the monumental developmental strides back home, the Prime Minister underscored that the nation's current trajectory is being scripted entirely by the collective resolve of its citizens. "When historians look back 50 or 100 years from now and assess this period in India's journey, one fact will stand out: this era was driven by the aspirations of the people of India. This is a new age of Indian aspirations," he said. Highlighting the tectonic shift in the nation's capability and confidence, Modi added, "What was once a dream is now a reality. What once seemed impossible has now become possible."
Credit to the People
Deflecting praise from himself, the Prime Minister firmly credited the citizens of India for piloting this historic metamorphosis. "And what is the greatest force behind this transformation? Who has made all this possible? It is not because of Modi. It is because of the people of India. When everyone progresses together, the nation progresses together," he stated.
India Shaping the Future
Amidst a fast-evolving global order, the Prime Minister noted that New Delhi's proactive role is being universally recognized. "Today, the world is witnessing that India is not merely preparing for the future, it is actively shaping the future," he said. In an era defined by geopolitical recalibration, Modi pointed out that global partnerships have transcended mere transaction to a deeper framework of reliability. "There was a time when relationships between nations were defined primarily by trade. Today, along with trade, trust has become equally important. Every country wants reliable supply chains. Every country seeks stable partnerships. Every country is looking for partners it can depend on with confidence," he added.
Expanding India-France Ties
Turning to bilateral equations, the Prime Minister expressed immense optimism regarding the expanding horizon of New Delhi-Paris ties. "The scope of cooperation between our two countries will continue to expand. We are making payments and financial transactions more seamless and strengthening people-to-people ties. In every sphere, we are bringing India and France closer together," he said. Modi emphasized that the true strength of this relationship lies in all the Indians in France.
Call to Diaspora
Rallying the gathering to remain active stakeholders in the nation's growth story, the Prime Minister stated, "My fellow countrymen, as India moves rapidly towards becoming a developed and prosperous nation, I urge you to deepen your engagement with India. Your participation will add new strength to India's development journey and also give you an opportunity to serve the land of your ancestors. With these words, I thank all of you for your affection, enthusiasm, and unwavering support."
