NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a stark warning on Saturday, cautioning that ongoing conflicts and global instability threaten to undo decades of progress, potentially plunging vast populations back into poverty. He underscored the critical importance of establishing resilient and trustworthy global supply chains amidst these challenges.
Speaking to the Indian diaspora in The Hague during his visit to the Netherlands, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the world is currently navigating an exceptionally difficult period. This phase, he noted, is characterized by the lingering impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, persistent conflicts, and a pervasive energy crisis.
“First came corona, then wars broke out, and now there’s an energy crisis,” the Prime Minister stated, emphasizing that “this decade is becoming a decade of crises for the world.”
He further cautioned, “If this situation does not change quickly, the achievements of past decades could be wiped away. A large section of the world’s population could fall back into the trap of poverty.”
Against this challenging backdrop, PM Modi drew attention to the burgeoning cooperation between India and the Netherlands in forging secure and transparent supply chains. “In such global circumstances, the world today is talking about resilient supply chains, and India and the Netherlands are working together to build a trusted and transparent supply chain,” he affirmed.
The Prime Minister’s observations were made during a vibrant community event attended by members of the Indian diaspora. During the event, he commended the Indian community in the Netherlands for their commendable efforts in preserving their rich cultural heritage while simultaneously making significant contributions to Dutch society.
“So much love and enthusiasm… to tell you the truth, for a while I completely forgot that I’m in the Netherlands. It feels just like some festival is going on somewhere in India,” PM Modi remarked, expressing his delight at the warm reception.
He characterized the narratives of Indians settled abroad as “stories of progress amid countless struggles,” and lauded the diaspora for their unwavering commitment to preserving Indian languages and traditions across generations.
PM Modi also took the opportunity to reflect on India’s profound political and economic transformation over the past decade. He specifically recalled the pivotal 2014 Lok Sabha election results, which saw the BJP-led NDA government ascend to power with a decisive full majority after decades.
“Today is May 16, and this day is very special for another reason as well. Twelve years ago today, on May 16, 2014, something special happened,” he stated, noting that those election results heralded the return of a stable majority government in India.
“The faith of crores of Indians does not let me stop, nor does it let me tire,” the Prime Minister declared, underscoring his commitment to public service.
Further elaborating on India’s impressive economic trajectory, PM Modi proudly announced that the country has emerged as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. He added that India is increasingly solidifying its position as a global hub for innovation, manufacturing, and green energy.
Prime Minister Modi also took the opportunity to highlight the robust sporting ties between India and the Netherlands, acknowledging the significant contributions both nations have made to each other’s sporting ecosystems.
“Netherlands performed well in the T20 Cricket World Cup in India,” Modi observed, drawing a parallel by stating that just as Indians have contributed to Dutch cricket, the Netherlands has also played a crucial role in the development of Indian hockey.
He specifically lauded former India women’s hockey coach Sjoerd Marijne, crediting him with playing a “significant role” in the remarkable growth of Indian women’s hockey.
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