Asia is at the crossroads of a very special moment in the history of humanity: PM Modi
All Asian civilizations had had a common value system which could avoid conflicts among humans & between humans and nature: PM
Conflict avoidance based on harmonizing the diversity of humans is inherent in Asian democracy as its basic value: PM Narendra Modi
Our democratic approach is founded on consensus, says Prime Minister Modi
Our idea of democracy is founded on values which recognize the space of not only humans but also of nature: PM Narendra Modi

Following is the transcript of video message of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi for the Tokyo meet on January 19, 2016:

I am delighted that the Tokyo Foundation is hosting a conclave on the theme of “Asian Values and Democracy” on January 19 as follow-up of the conclave held by Vivekananda International Foundation in Delhi last year.

The theme of the two-day conference held in Delhi in September 2015 was “Conflict Avoidance and Environmental Consciousness” from the Hindu Buddhist civilizational perspective.

It is universally accepted that this century belongs to Asia. Asia is at the crossroads of a very special moment in the history of humanity. This is a continent bustling with energy, enthusiasm and exuberance, driven by the dynamism of a youthful population that is constantly innovating.

All Asian civilizations, Indic, Shinto, or Dao, had had a common value system which could avoid conflicts among humans and between humans and nature-- the conflict among states being different. That common value system recognizes, accepts and even celebrates diversity among humans. This is what leads to conflict avoidance as it is founded on harmony in diversity. Conflict avoidance based on harmonizing the diversity of humans is inherent in Asian democracy as its basic value.

Our idea of democracy is not just a game of numbers mediated by the rules of majority and minority as it happens in numerical democracies. Our democratic approach is founded on consensus. It does not rest on the idea of rights alone but also includes duties. The Indian constitution provides for moral fundamental duties of individuals towards one another and to the creation which sustains us all.

Our idea of democracy is founded on values which recognize the space of not only humans but also of nature -- animals and plants -- which incorporates the principles of environment.

The inclusion of nature and environment makes our life and approach less anthropocentric and more eco-centric.

Great Indian thinkers like Maharishi Aurobindo, Swami Vivekananda and Rabindranath Tagore have envisioned Asian unity in this higher sense of the term.

I am sure that with its theme of Asian Values and Democracy, the Tokyo Conclave will enable India and Japan to expand articulate and include the concepts of conflict avoidance and environmental consciousness as integral to our larger democratic framework.

With this I wish the Tokyo Conclave all success. I send my heartiest congratulations to the Tokyo Foundation and the Japanese government for having organized this meeting.

Thank you.

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৭৮ তম স্বাধীনতা দিবস উপলক্ষ্যে নয়াদিল্লির লালকেল্লার প্রাকার থেকে প্রধানমন্ত্রীর ভাষণ ১৫ই আগস্ট , ২০২৪

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৭৮ তম স্বাধীনতা দিবস উপলক্ষ্যে নয়াদিল্লির লালকেল্লার প্রাকার থেকে প্রধানমন্ত্রীর ভাষণ ১৫ই আগস্ট , ২০২৪
Global aerospace firms turn to India amid Western supply chain crisis

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Global aerospace firms turn to India amid Western supply chain crisis
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The World This Week On India
February 18, 2025

This week, India reinforced its position as a formidable force on the world stage, making headway in artificial intelligence, energy security, space exploration, and defence. From shaping global AI ethics to securing strategic partnerships, every move reflects India's growing influence in global affairs.

And when it comes to diplomacy and negotiation, even world leaders acknowledge India's strength. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, known for his tough negotiating style, put it simply:

“[Narendra Modi] is a much tougher negotiator than me, and he is a much better negotiator than me. There’s not even a contest.”

With India actively shaping global conversations, let’s take a look at some of the biggest developments this week.

AI for All: India and France Lead a Global Movement

The future of AI isn’t just about technology—it’s about ethics and inclusivity. India and France co-hosted the Summit for Action on AI in Paris, where 60 countries backed a declaration calling for AI that is "open," "inclusive," and "ethical." As artificial intelligence becomes a geopolitical battleground, India is endorsing a balanced approach—one that ensures technological progress without compromising human values.

A Nuclear Future: India and France Strengthen Energy Security

In a world increasingly focused on clean energy, India is stepping up its nuclear power game. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed their commitment to developing small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), a paradigm shift in the transition to a low-carbon economy. With energy security at the heart of India’s strategy, this collaboration is a step toward long-term sustainability.

Gaganyaan: India’s Space Dream Inches Closer

India’s ambitions to send astronauts into space took a major leap forward as the budget for the Gaganyaan mission was raised to $2.32 billion. This is more than just a scientific milestone—it’s about proving that India is ready to stand alongside the world’s leading space powers. A successful human spaceflight will set the stage for future interplanetary missions, pushing India's space program to new frontiers.

India’s Semiconductor Push: Lam Research Bets Big

The semiconductor industry is the backbone of modern technology, and India wants a bigger share of the pie. US chip toolmaker Lam Research announced a $1 billion investment in India, signalling confidence in the country’s potential to become a global chip manufacturing hub. As major companies seek alternatives to traditional semiconductor strongholds like Taiwan, India is positioning itself as a serious contender in the global supply chain.

Defence Partnerships: A New Era in US-India Military Ties

The US and India are expanding their defence cooperation, with discussions of a future F-35 fighter jet deal on the horizon. The latest agreements also include increased US military sales to India, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. Meanwhile, India is also deepening its energy cooperation with the US, securing new oil and gas import agreements that reinforce economic and security ties.

Energy Security: India Locks in LNG Supply from the UAE

With global energy markets facing volatility, India is taking steps to secure long-term energy stability. New multi-billion-dollar LNG agreements with ADNOC will provide India with a steady and reliable supply of natural gas, reducing its exposure to price fluctuations. As India moves toward a cleaner energy future, such partnerships are critical to maintaining energy security while keeping costs in check.

UAE Visa Waiver: A Boon for Indian Travelers

For Indians residing in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, visiting the UAE just became a lot simpler. A new visa waiver, effective February 13, will save Dh750 per person and eliminate lengthy approval processes. This move makes travel to the UAE more accessible and strengthens business and cultural ties between the two countries.

A Gift of Friendship: Trump’s Gesture to Modi

During his visit to India, Donald Trump presented Prime Minister Modi with a personalized book chronicling their long-standing friendship. Beyond the usual diplomatic formalities, this exchange reflects the personal bonds that sometimes shape international relations as much as policies do.

Memory League Champion: India’s New Star of Mental Speed

India is making its mark in unexpected ways, too. Vishvaa Rajakumar, a 20-year-old Indian college student, stunned the world by memorizing 80 random numbers in just 13.5 seconds, winning the Memory League World Championship. His incredible feat underscores India’s growing reputation for mental agility and cognitive excellence on the global stage.

India isn’t just participating in global affairs—it’s shaping them. Whether it’s setting ethical AI standards, securing energy independence, leading in space exploration, or expanding defence partnerships, the country is making bold, strategic moves that solidify its role as a global leader.

As the world takes note of India’s rise, one thing is clear: this journey is just getting started.