HANOI– India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, delivered a poignant address at the unveiling ceremony of Mahatma Gandhi’s bust in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. During his speech, Minister Jaishankar extolled the enduring significance of Mahatma Gandhi in today’s world, marked by conflicts and violence. He emphasized that Gandhi is not merely a political inspiration but also a guiding light for diplomacy.
Mahatma Gandhi, an iconic figure on the global stage, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to truth, non-violence, and the liberation of people. The United Nations has recognized his contributions by designating his birthday as the International Day of Non-Violence.
Minister Jaishankar, who recently embarked on a four-day official visit to Vietnam, underscored that Mahatma Gandhi’s influence transcends national borders. He noted that Gandhi’s philosophy has left an indelible mark on the ideals of human dignity, societal values, spirituality, environmental consciousness, sustainability, cleanliness, and many other domains.
In a world grappling with conflict and violence, Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy serves not only as a source of political inspiration but also as a catalyst for diplomatic efforts to reconcile differences and bridge divides, Minister Jaishankar asserted.
The ceremony, which featured the unveiling of Gandhi’s bust in Tao Dan Park, Ho Chi Minh City, holds profound significance for the deep-rooted friendship between India and Vietnam. This friendship is characterized by mutual respect and shared aspirations for a brighter world.
Minister Jaishankar further stressed that the installation of Gandhi’s statue symbolizes the robust people-to-people connections between the two nations, encompassing various aspects such as yoga, culture, arts, and Buddhism.
The commemoration of Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy carries universal significance and conveys a powerful message of independence, self-reliance, and human dignity, transcending both national and international boundaries.
This event is a testament to the enduring relationship between India and Vietnam, which was nurtured by luminaries such as Mahatma Gandhi and President Ho Chi Minh. Their exchange of messages during their lifetimes, coupled with the historical ties between the two nations, has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership in the present day.
Minister Jaishankar’s visit to Vietnam reaffirms the multifaceted collaboration between the two countries, spanning political exchanges, economic cooperation, trade and investment, defense and security, development cooperation, culture, and people-to-people connections.
In conclusion, Minister Jaishankar reiterated the commitment of India and Vietnam to further strengthen their enduring friendship, founded on the rich tradition of mutual trust and collaboration that has been cultivated over the years.
Following his visit to Vietnam, Minister Jaishankar is set to embark on a visit to Singapore from October 19 to 20, thereby continuing diplomatic engagements in the region.
