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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Nigeria marked a significant moment in India's foreign policy and showcased the nation's remarkable strides in innovation and economic growth. Addressing the Indian diaspora in Abuja, Modi painted a vibrant picture of a transformed India, confidently stepping onto the global stage. His speech highlighted India's journey from a developing nation to a global powerhouse, a transformation achieved through strategic policies and a focus on technological advancement. The visit itself symbolized a deepening engagement with Africa, reflecting India's commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.
A key theme throughout Modi's address was India's burgeoning innovation ecosystem. He proudly cited the impressive growth in the number of startups and unicorns, illustrating the dynamism and potential of the Indian economy. The over 150,000 registered startups and over 100 unicorns represent not only a significant economic achievement but also a cultural shift – a willingness to embrace risk, experiment, and challenge traditional norms. This burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit is not just confined to the tech sector; it permeates various industries, driving economic diversification and creating new opportunities for employment and wealth generation. The doubling of India's economy in the last decade, reaching the fifth-largest economy globally, underscores the effectiveness of these policies and the potential for further expansion towards a USD 5 trillion economy.
Beyond the economic achievements, Modi also underscored India's remarkable progress in space exploration and defense capabilities. The upcoming Gaganyaan mission, aiming to send Indian astronauts into space, represents a significant technological leap and a testament to India's ambition in the space race. The plans for constructing an Indian space station further solidify India's position as a major player in space exploration, signifying not only scientific prowess but also the potential for future economic benefits and international collaborations. Similarly, the significant increase in defense exports, a 30-fold rise, demonstrates India's growing self-reliance in the defense sector and its capacity to become a major player in global arms manufacturing and supply.
Modi's visit also served to strengthen bilateral relations between India and Nigeria. He lauded the contributions of the Indian diaspora in Nigeria, highlighting their role in the country's development and emphasizing the shared values of welfare and community. The mention of successful Indian companies like Tolaram's Noodles and the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation provided tangible examples of the positive impact of Indian investment and engagement in Nigeria. The popularity of Indian films and Hindi language in Nigeria also underscores the strong cultural connections between the two nations, creating a fertile ground for further collaboration and understanding. The historical parallels between India and Nigeria's struggles for independence further cemented the bond, highlighting a shared history and a common desire for progress and self-determination.
Looking beyond the bilateral ties, Modi's speech emphasized India's growing role in global affairs and its commitment to multilateralism. He portrayed India as a ‘Vishwa Bandhu’ (global friend), highlighting its contribution to global health during the COVID-19 pandemic through vaccine diplomacy. India's success in securing the African Union's permanent membership in the G20 under its presidency demonstrated its commitment to amplifying the voice of Africa on the world stage and fostering stronger partnerships within the global community. This commitment to inclusivity and global cooperation reinforces India's image as a responsible and influential stakeholder in the international arena, ready to tackle global challenges and promote shared prosperity.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi's visit to Nigeria served as a powerful platform to showcase India's remarkable transformation and its aspirations for the future. The emphasis on innovation, economic growth, and technological advancement underscores India's ambition to become a global leader. The strengthening of ties with Nigeria reflects India's broader strategy of engaging with Africa, promoting South-South cooperation, and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships. The visit was a success not only in terms of bilateral relations but also in projecting a confident and ambitious India on the world stage, ready to play a significant role in shaping the future of global politics and economics.
Source: India stepping out of comfort zone, embracing innovation: PM in Nigeria