India's policy shift: From distance to closeness

New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized on Friday that India's foreign policy has evolved from maintaining "equi-distance" to fostering "equi-closeness" with nations worldwide.

Speaking at the TV9 Summit, PM Modi highlighted India's rising global influence, particularly in the Global South. He stated, "At one time, India had a policy of... maintaining equal distance from everyone, the policy of equi-distance. The policy of today's India is... be equally close to everyone, the policy of equi-closeness." He reiterated that the guiding principle of India's foreign policy is now "India First."

Under India's G20 presidency, the African Union gained permanent membership, reflecting India's leadership on the global stage. PM Modi noted that initiatives like International Yoga Day and the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine showcase India's growing role in shaping global policies.

He also highlighted India's economic rise, stating that the country has become the fifth-largest economy within just seven to eight years. IMF reports indicate that India is the only major economy to double its GDP in a decade.

PM Modi further stressed the importance of global cooperation in addressing energy challenges and emphasized India's role in the International Solar Alliance, which has gained participation from over 100 countries.