Declaring that it is now India’s turn to sustain Asia’s success, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that with its fastest growing economy, the country has become a new bright spot of hope for the region in particular and the entire world in general. Addressing 6th Asian Leadership Forum at Seoul, Mr Modi also called upon the regional leaders to be united against the menace of terrorism and other such challenges. Mr Modi said, with the population of 1.25 billion people, blessed with the extraordinary resources in the form of 800 million youth, India’s potential has never been in doubt. And, in the course of the past year, we are translating promise into a reality; hope into confidence. India’s growth has rebounded to 7.5% per year; and, the prospects of further increase are strong. The world speaks in one voice that India is the new bright spot of hope for our region and the world. The progress of one-sixth of humanity will also be an opportunity for the world, the Prime Minister said. Mr Modi said with its growing weight, Asia will also have to take greater responsibility for the world. And, it must also seek a larger role in global affairs. It is also our collective task against our common challenges “terrorism; trans-national crimes; natural disasters; and diseases. Asia of dynamism, but also of uncertainties must lead in shaping its course, he said. Mr Modi called upon the Asian leadership to work for the reforms of the global institutions, including the United Nations and its Security Council. Asia of rivalries will hold us back. Asia of unity will shape the world,†Mr Modi. Recalling how Korea’s economic miracle and global leadership in technology has made the promise of the Asian Century more real, the Prime Minister said, Korea is a pillar of democracy and a force of stability in Asia and Pacific.” Referring to Asia’s re-emergence as the greatest phenomenon of the present era, Mr Modi said, It started in Japan and then extended to China, Korea and Southeast Asian nations. In the West, nations like Qatar are transforming their desert landscapes into booming economies. We have risen from tragic conflicts and the long shadow of colonialism. ”
