In a historic address to the Parliament of Guyana on Thursday, November 21, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke passionately about democracy, humanity, and the need for global unity. On his visit to Guyana, PM Modi highlighted the deep-rooted connections between India and Guyana and shared a vision for a world driven by cooperation and shared progress.
Strengthening Democracy and Shared Histories
PM Modi expressed his gratitude for the honor bestowed upon him by the people of Guyana. “I dedicate this honor to the citizens of India,” he said, becoming visibly emotional. Modi lauded Guyana’s commitment to democracy, emphasizing that both India and Guyana share a democratic ethos deeply ingrained in their cultures.
Drawing parallels between the histories of the two nations, he recalled the shared struggles against slavery and colonialism. “We fought together for freedom from slavery and achieved independence,” Modi stated, highlighting the sacrifices made by people in both nations during their respective freedom struggles.
Democracy as a Global Pillar
PM Modi underscored the importance of democracy, calling it a tool for securing the welfare of humanity. He stated, “Democracy is in our DNA. It is not just a system of governance but a way of life.” Referring to India’s presidency of the G20, he emphasized the country’s message of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” which reflects a commitment to inclusive and sustainable global development.
Modi also reminded the audience of India’s efforts during the COVID-19 crisis, where it championed the idea of “One Earth, One Health,” showcasing the nation’s dedication to global well-being.
Addressing Global Challenges
PM Modi acknowledged the modern challenges facing the world, such as extremism, cybercrime, and drug abuse. He emphasized the need to collectively address these issues to secure a better future for coming generations.
He called upon nations to move away from the mindset of exploiting resources and focus instead on sustainable development. “India has never advanced with the spirit of expansionism or resource plundering. We stand for peace and global development,” Modi affirmed.
India: Voice of the Global South
Highlighting India’s role in global geopolitics, PM Modi described India as the voice of the Global South, representing the aspirations and concerns of developing nations. He reiterated India’s commitment to fostering peace and progress, urging the world to embrace a “Democracy First, Humanity First” approach.
A Vision for Unity
Concluding his address, PM Modi emphasized the importance of identifying and eliminating the root causes of conflict. He stated, “Now is the time to unite and work for the welfare of humanity. There is no greater medium than democracy for global progress.”
Modi’s speech in the Parliament of Guyana marks a pivotal moment in India-Guyana relations, strengthening bonds between the two nations while delivering a powerful message of hope and cooperation to the global community.
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