Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla stated that despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, India is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. He said, “We are seen not just as reliable political partners but as reliable economic partners. Our commitment to democracy, transparency and the rule of law and the unique Indian ethos of entrepreneurship and hard work is paying an economic dividend. We matter more than ever before in all the multilateral conversations that relate to economic and financial matters.”
Praising India’s economic policy, he said that the country’s upcoming presidency of the G20 group is both an acknowledgement of our enhanced global standing and an opportunity to project our perspectives and highlight our priorities.
Lauding PM Narendra Modi’s initiative of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, Shringla stated that it had transformed India’s economic diplomacy. He said, “The concept of ‘atmanirbharta’ which we translate in foreign policy language into strategic autonomy is transforming our economy and technology diplomacy.” In spite of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, India remained one of the fasted growing economies of the world. Contemporary economic events in the neighbourhood highlight both the strength and resilience of the Indian economy and its position as a source of liquidity and financial stability during difficult times, he added.
He hoped that India will become a more prominent hub for resilient and dependable supply chains and global value chains. India’s democracy dividends in foreign policy and strategic affairs are growing, he claimed.
