PM Narendra Modi Discusses India’s Cultural Heritage, Foreign Relations in Newsweek Interview

In an interview with Newsweek, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s cultural heritage, emphasizing the significance of Lord Shri Ram in the country’s national consciousness. He described Lord Ram’s life as influential in shaping the thoughts and values of Indian civilization.

Reflecting on the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya earlier this year, PM Modi underscored its historic importance, portraying it as a symbol of national unity and the culmination of centuries of perseverance and sacrifice. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians during the ceremony.

PM Modi also addressed key foreign relations issues. On India-China relations, he stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence and the need to resolve border tensions for the stability of the region and the world. Similarly, he advocated for peace, security, and prosperity in the region in the context of India-Pakistan relations, refraining from commenting on Pakistan’s internal affairs.

Regarding the Quad grouping, comprising the US, Australia, Japan, and India, PM Modi clarified that it is not targeted against any specific country but rather aims to foster cooperation on shared agendas, akin to other international groupings like SCO and BRICS.

Responding to criticism of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, PM Modi invited observers to witness firsthand the positive changes and development initiatives taking place in the region. He highlighted improvements in tourism, a decline in terror incidents, and the restoration of normalcy in daily life as indicators of progress.

Through the interview, PM Modi articulated India’s stance on various domestic and international issues, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to peace, progress, and cooperation on the global stage.