Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the ongoing West Asia crisis, asserting that India remains focused on its national interests while advocating peace and dialogue amid global tensions. Speaking at the TV9 Network Summit, he emphasized that despite challenging international conditions, the country continues to move forward with a commitment to development, trust, and stability.

Highlighting India’s diplomatic approach, Modi said that over the past 23 days, the nation has demonstrated strong capabilities in relationship-building, decision-making, and crisis management. He noted that at a time when the world appears divided into multiple geopolitical blocs, India has successfully built broad and balanced partnerships across regions, positioning itself as a reliable global partner.

Addressing questions about India’s stance in global conflicts, the Prime Minister said the country remains firmly aligned with its own interests. “People often ask whose side we are on. We stand with India, with India’s interests, and with peace and dialogue,” he stated, underlining a policy of strategic autonomy while navigating complex international dynamics.

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The Prime Minister also used the platform to criticise the opposition, particularly the Indian National Congress, accusing it of prioritising political power over national interest during its tenure. He referred to the issuance of oil bonds between 2004 and 2010 under the United Progressive Alliance government, arguing that the move imposed a long-term financial burden on the country. He cited former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as having acknowledged the implications of such decisions.

Modi claimed that the repayment of these oil bonds, including interest, has significantly increased the financial strain, stating that the total cost exceeded ₹3 lakh crore. He added that his government has spent the past several years addressing these liabilities, describing it as an effort to rectify past policy decisions while ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister said India has remained resilient through successive global challenges since the COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed that despite disruptions such as conflicts and supply chain instability, the country has maintained steady progress. Emphasising India’s role on the global stage, he said the nation continues to serve as a bridge between regions—from the Gulf to Western nations and from the Global South to its neighbours—while ensuring that essential supplies and economic stability are maintained for its citizens.

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