PM Narendra Modi's 'Not Time for War' Call from Poland: Emphasizes Peace and Diplomacy

During his visit to Poland, Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly underscored India's dedication to peace. While speaking to the Indian community in Warsaw, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s deep-rooted commitment to resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, emphasizing, "This is not an era of war."

PM Modi’s Peace Message from Poland: 'This is Not an Era of War'

"India is the land of Lord Buddha’s legacy. Therefore, India does not believe in war and advocates for peace in this region. India is an advocate of permanent peace in this region. India’s concept is clear: this is not an era of war, and it is the time to unite to tackle the biggest challenges of humanity. Thus, India believes in dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflict," PM Modi emphasized in his address.

A Historic Visit: First Indian PM in Poland in Over 40 Years

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Poland is the first by an Indian leader in over four decades, highlighting the importance of the relationship between India and Poland. In his address, he highlighted India’s evolving foreign policy, which now emphasizes maintaining equal closeness with all nations, in contrast to its previous stance of remaining equidistant.

"For decades, India had a policy to maintain distance from all the countries. However, the policy of today’s India is to have equal closeness with all countries. The India of today wants to connect with all. Today’s India talks about the development of all. Today’s India is with all and thinks about the interests of all," PM Modi stated.

The Indian Diaspora: A Pillar of India’s Global Presence

Addressing the vibrant Indian community in Warsaw, PM Modi praised their contributions and the respect India commands on the global stage. He highlighted the unity among the diaspora, despite their diverse backgrounds, and acknowledged their role in upholding India's values and heritage.

"We are proud that today, the world respects India as 'Vishwabandhu'. You also feel the same here. My information is correct, right?" he asked, receiving an enthusiastic response from the audience.

PM Modi also paid tribute to Indian soldiers at the Monte Cassino Memorial, recognizing their sacrifice and commitment. "This memorial reminds us of the sacrifice of thousands of Indian soldiers. This is proof of how Indians have performed their duty in every corner of the world," he said.

India’s Global Leadership: A Commitment to Humanity

PM Modi emphasized that India’s global influence is built on empathy and humanitarian efforts, citing India’s proactive support during global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. He lauded the Indian community for their efforts in helping Indian students stranded in Ukraine during the 2022 conflict and expressed gratitude to the Polish government for their support.

"Empathy is also an identity of us Indians. Whenever there is a crisis in any country in the world, India is the first country which extends a helping hand. When Covid came, India said, Humanity first. We sent medicines and vaccines to more than 150 countries of the world," PM Modi stated, further adding, "If there is a war, India says – Humanity first and in this spirit, India helps the citizens all over the world."

Strengthening India-Poland Ties: The Jam Saheb Memorial Youth Exchange Programme

In a significant gesture to strengthen cultural ties, PM Modi announced the launch of the Jam Saheb Memorial Youth Exchange Programme. This initiative will invite 20 Polish youths to visit India annually, promoting cultural exchange and deepening ties between the two nations.

"India is going to start the Jam Saheb Memorial Youth Exchange programme. Under this programme, India will invite 20 Polish youths annually to visit India. This way, Poland youth will get to learn more about India," PM Modi announced.

Poland’s Historic Support for India: A Legacy of Friendship

PM Modi acknowledged Poland’s historical support for India, recalling how the Polish government was among the first to offer assistance during the Gujarat earthquake two decades ago. He also reflected on the deep ties between India and Poland, symbolized by the legacy of Jam Saheb of Nawanagar, who sheltered Polish women and children during World War II.

"Jam Saheb is still remembered as 'Dobry or Good Maharaja' in Poland. During World War II, when Poland faced difficulties, when thousands of women and children from Poland were wandering from place to place for shelter, Jam Saheb, Digvijay Singh Ranjit Singh Jadeja ji came forward. He had built a special camp for Polish women and children and he told the women and children of the camp that just as the people of Nava Nagar call me Bapu, I am your Bapu too," PM Modi recounted.

India’s Democratic Strength: A Global Example

Highlighting India's democratic strength, PM Modi referred to the recent elections in India, describing them as the largest democratic exercise in history. He pointed out the scale and efficiency of the electoral process, which saw participation from millions of voters across the country.

"India is not only the Mother of democracy, but it is also a participatory and Vibrant Democracy. The people of India have unwavering faith in democracy. We have seen this confidence in recent elections also. This was the biggest election in history," PM Modi stated.

He also noted the extensive management involved in conducting the elections, underscoring India's capability in organizing such a massive event efficiently.

A Warm Welcome in Poland: Strengthening Bilateral Ties

PM Modi's visit to Poland was met with enthusiasm from the Indian community and Polish citizens alike. The Prime Minister was warmly welcomed at various events, reflecting the strong bilateral relations between the two nations.

Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi stated, "You all have come here from different parts of Poland. Everyone has different languages, dialects, food habits, but you all are connected with the feeling of Indianness. You have given me such a wonderful welcome here, I am very grateful to all of you, to the people of Poland, for this welcome."