By Dr. Waiel Awwad
New Delhi, Sept 17 . On the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday, we take this opportunity to celebrate his visionary leadership and the profound impact he has had on India’s foreign policy, especially in strengthening ties with Arab countries.
The Modi brand represents a significant shift in India’s foreign policy approach, characterized by a strategic, proactive, and results-driven framework.
Under his stewardship, India has increasingly placed economic diplomacy as a key pillar of its foreign policy agenda, with a renewed emphasis on expanding trade, investment, and strategic partnerships with Arab nations.
Prime Minister Modi’s foreign policy initiatives have prioritized sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology, and defence, which are vital for fostering sustainable growth and regional cooperation.
A landmark initiative, the ‘Make in India’ campaign, aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and attracting foreign investment, has been extended to Arab countries.
This initiative encourages Indian startups and businesses to explore new investment opportunities, leveraging India’s strengths in technology, innovation, and defence to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
In addition to economic engagement, Prime Minister Modi has prioritized cultivating strategic partnerships with Arab countries. Key areas of collaboration include security, counterterrorism, maritime cooperation, and defence collaboration.
As a result, India’s defence ties with nations such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Oman have deepened, further positioning India as a trusted and reliable security partner in the region.
Cultural diplomacy has been another cornerstone of India’s engagement under his leadership. Initiatives promoting Indian culture, yoga, Ayurveda, and Bollywood films have significantly strengthened people-to-people connections and enhanced India’s soft power across the Arab world.
Recognizing the role of the Indian diaspora, Prime Minister Modi has actively engaged with expatriate communities, acknowledging their contributions and fostering avenues for cultural, economic, and diplomatic exchanges.
Overall, Prime Minister Modi’s leadership has brought about a strategic realignment and elevation of India’s relations with Arab countries, marked by expanded economic cooperation, strengthened security ties, cultural exchanges, and sustained diplomatic engagement.
This paradigm shift reflects India’s growing global influence and its commitment to building partnerships rooted in shared values, peace, stability, and prosperity.
As we celebrate his birthday, we honour Prime Minister Modi’s vision, resolve, and dedication to creating an interconnected and prosperous Indo-Arab partnership, one that continues to shape a stable and cooperative future for both regions.
(The writer is Senior International Journalist & West Asia strategist)
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