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News Topical, Digital Desk : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed a joint session of Namibia's Parliament, saying India's Constitution guides us in maintaining equality, liberty and justice. Those who have nothing have what the Constitution guarantees.
He congratulated Namibia for electing its first woman president a few months ago. He also said that we understand and share your pride and happiness because in India we too proudly call you Madam President.
Prime Minister addressed a joint session of the Parliament of Namibia
When Prime Minister Modi started his address in the joint session, the MPs stood up and greeted him. During this, slogans of 'Modi-Modi' were also raised. The Prime Minister said that it is the power of the Constitution of India that the daughter of a poor tribal family is the President of the world's largest democracy. The power of this Constitution has given a person born in a poor family like him the opportunity to become Prime Minister three times.
I have brought the good wishes of 1.4 billion people of India - PM
The Prime Minister said, "It is a great privilege for me to address this august House, the temple of democracy. I thank you for giving me this honour. I stand before you as a representative of the mother of democracy and bring with me the good wishes of the 1.4 billion people of India. India and Namibia have a lot in common. We have both struggled against colonial rule. We both value dignity and freedom. We are part of the Global South and our people have similar hopes and dreams."
Modi said that he felt extremely honoured to receive Namibia's highest civilian award as a symbol of friendship between the people of the two countries. Our friendship has stood the test of time. Modi said that Africa should not be just a source of raw materials. Africa should be a leader in value creation and sustainable development.
We have to work together- PM Modi
He said, "We have to work together. Let us build a future that is defined not by power, but by partnership; not by domination, but by dialogue; not by exclusion, but by equality."
He said India is ready to expand cooperation with Africa in the field of defence and security. India has had the privilege of sharing its development experience with Namibia and other countries of the continent.
India ready to expand cooperation in defense and security sector
He said, "In 2018, I laid down 10 principles of engagement with Africa. I reaffirm India's full commitment to them. These principles are based on respect, equality and mutual benefit. We do not want to compete, but cooperate. Our goal is to build together. Not to take, but to grow together."
PM Modi said, "Our development partnership in Africa is worth more than $12 billion. But its real value lies in shared growth and shared purpose. We will continue to build local skills, create local jobs and support local innovation."
Helped us re-establish cheetahs in our country- PM
India greatly values its historic ties with Namibia, the Prime Minister said. "There is a powerful story of cooperation, conservation and compassion between India and Namibia when you helped us reintroduce cheetahs in our country. We are deeply grateful for this gift. I had the privilege of releasing them in Kuno National Park. They have sent a message for you: all is well," he said.
PM Modi said, "They are happy and have settled well in their new home. Their numbers have also increased." "We are excited to support the next generation of Namibian scientists, doctors and leaders," the Prime Minister said. "Our bilateral trade has crossed $800 million, but like a cricket field, we are still warming up! We will score more runs, faster!" the Prime Minister said.
21 gun salute given
Earlier on Wednesday morning, Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the State House and was given a guard of honour. He was also given a 21-gun salute. After the day's events, he left for New Delhi on Wednesday night as per Indian time.
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