Jakarta, July 8 (IANS) Members of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia expressed happiness after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying they were impressed by his address and inspired by his vision for India’s progress.

Speaking to IANS, several members of the Indian community on Tuesday described the interaction with the Prime Minister as a memorable and proud moment.

One member of the Indian diaspora said, “It felt wonderful to meet Prime Minister Modi. Today, he spoke to us about the progress taking place in India, and we learned a great deal about the country’s development.”

Another member said, “Today, we got the opportunity to come here and meet the Prime Minister. We are grateful for this opportunity.”

A third member praised the Prime Minister’s speech, saying, “I was very impressed with his address. He knows what he is doing, and we look forward to having him as our Prime Minister for many more years.”

Another member, who hails from Rajasthan, said, “I am from Rajasthan, India, and it is a matter of great pride that the Prime Minister of our country came to meet us. We are very happy after meeting him.”

Another member of the diaspora described the occasion as special, saying, “It is a great honour because such moments do not come often. It is inspiring to see how the Prime Minister is working for India’s development and empowering the youth through various initiatives.”

Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Imoto Technologies, Abhishek Yadav, also welcomed the interaction. He said, “Today’s event was very meaningful as both Prime Minister Modi and President Prabowo were present. It gave us an excellent opportunity to discuss our company and our work in developing indigenous battery manufacturing technology in Indonesia. Our plant is fully operated by women, and we hope the opportunities created through the energy transition will benefit all sections of society, especially women.”

PM Modi said on Tuesday that India’s economy is playing a major role in driving global growth, fuelled by the mantra of “Reform, Perform and Transform”.

Addressing the Indian community in Jakarta, PM Modi highlighted that this mantra had helped accelerate the country’s development and strengthen its position on the global stage.

The Prime Minister thanked the Indian community in Indonesia for helping to strengthen ties between the two countries.

He pointed out that the Indian diaspora was playing a crucial role as ambassadors of Indian culture, values and traditions across the world.

PM Modi recalled Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to India as the Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations and referred to the latter’s remark that had touched the hearts of millions of Indians.

“You had said that you have India’s DNA. That one statement won the hearts of millions of Indians, and even today, it receives the loudest applause. I want to say that DNA is built on mutual trust and shared history,” the Prime Minister remarked.

The Prime Minister said the relationship between India and Indonesia goes far beyond diplomacy, as it is based on centuries-old cultural and historical ties between the two countries.

“The relations between India and Indonesia are civilisational,” PM Modi said, stressing that the friendship between the two nations continues to grow stronger.

The PM also said that Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, which was conferred on him earlier in the day, belongs to 1.4 billion Indians and all members of the Indian community.

“Above all, this award is another symbol of the close friendship between India and Indonesia,” he said.

The Prime Minister also said he was deeply moved by the welcome he received upon arriving in Indonesia. He also noted that President Prabowo personally received him at the airport along with members of the Cabinet, adding that the enthusiasm shown by the people, children and youth reflected strong goodwill towards India.

“From the moment my aircraft entered Indonesian airspace and I set foot here, I have been overwhelmed by the affection and warmth shown by the people of Indonesia,” PM Modi added.

–IANS

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