PM Modi addressed the Namibian Parliament, discussing the Indian constitution, equality, women's leadership, and the India-Africa partnership. The rehabilitation of cheetahs and trade relations were also highlighted.
PM Modi Namibia Speech: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a joint session of the Namibian Parliament on Wednesday. In his speech, he highlighted the deep partnership between India and Namibia, based on democracy, equality, and shared values. PM Modi emphasized topics such as the power of the constitution, women's leadership, African development, and strengthening India-Africa relations.
Highlighted the constitution's strength as the greatest guarantee
Prime Minister Modi said that India's constitution is a ray of hope for those who have nothing. He also stated that the Indian constitution is a guide in upholding equality, freedom, and justice. This is why the daughter of a poor tribal family could become the President of India, and a person born into a poor family became the Prime Minister of the country.
Congratulated Namibia on its female President
Prime Minister Modi congratulated Namibia on recently electing the country's first female president. He said that India fully understands this pride and joy because people in India also proudly say, 'Madam President'. This is a b step towards democracy and gender equality.
Warm welcome in Parliament
At the beginning of the address, Namibian MPs welcomed Prime Minister Modi by standing up. The slogans of 'Modi-Modi' were also heard in the House. The Prime Minister said that he was present there as a representative of India, the mother of democracy, and brought the good wishes of 1.4 billion people of India.
Historical relations between India and Namibia
The Prime Minister said that both India and Namibia have fought against colonial rule and prioritized freedom and dignity. He called this shared history the foundation of b friendship between the two countries.
Mentioned the Cheetahs from Namibia
Prime Minister Modi mentioned the cheetahs brought from Namibia, saying it is a story of cooperation and compassion between the two countries. He said that he himself had gone to the Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh to release the cheetahs and that they are now well-settled there and their numbers have also increased.
Africa as the next center of development
PM Modi said that Africa should not be considered just a source of raw materials but should play a leading role in value creation and sustainable development. He advocated for making Africa a major partner in the global economy.
Emphasis on India's development partnership
Prime Minister Modi stated that India's development partnership in Africa is more than $12 billion. He also said that the real value of this partnership lies in shared development, skill building, job creation, and innovation. He reiterated that India operates on the principle of cooperation, not competition.
India ready for cooperation in defense and security
PM Modi said that India is ready to expand cooperation with Africa in the field of defense and security. He recalled the 10 principles of India-Africa relations established in 2018 and said that India reiterates its full commitment to them. These principles are based on equality, respect, and mutual benefit.
The Prime Minister said that India is excited to help Namibian scientists, doctors, and future leaders. He said that cooperation between India and Namibia in areas like education, research, and innovation will be further strengthened.
Bilateral trade and the example of cricket
PM Modi stated that bilateral trade between India and Namibia has crossed $800 million. He jokingly said that the warm-up is still going on, the real innings will start now. Just as runs are scored in cricket, we will make rapid progress in trade.
21-gun salute and guard of honor
Prime Minister Modi received a formal welcome in Namibia. He was given a guard of honor at the State House and was felicitated with a 21-gun salute. After the day's programs, the Prime Minister departed for New Delhi.
