New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said that serving ‘Bharat’ under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been “one of the greatest honours of my life”.

Replying to PM Modi, who extended birthday greetings to him, Goyal said on X that the “nation is fortunate to have you as the longest serving Prime Minister and I will always be committed to work tirelessly under your guidance in our transformative journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047 and a prosperous future for every Bharatiya”.

“Your vision and commitment to nation-building will always be a constant source of inspiration and strength,” he further stated.

PM Modi earlier posted on X that the Commerce Minister “is making a great contribution in boosting trade and commerce, thereby strengthening our self-reliance and making India prosperous. Praying for his long and healthy life”.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his wishes, highlighting Goyal’s role in furthering the government’s development agenda.

Meanwhile, Goyal is visiting Switzerland’s capital, Berne, for discussions with senior representatives of the Swiss government and leaders of the Alpine country’s pharmaceutical industry, according to an official statement.

The deliberations were expected to focus on the implementation of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), addressing operational issues arising from the agreement, and enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and institutional cooperation.

During the visit, Goyal was scheduled to meet State Secretary for Economic Affairs Helene Budliger Artieda and Federal President Guy Parmelin. He will also interact with leading representatives of the Swiss pharmaceutical industry, the statement said this week.

Goyal has held several key positions in the Union government over the years. He previously served as the Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha and has headed important ministries, including Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles, Railways, Finance, Corporate Affairs, Coal, Power, New and Renewable Energy, and Mines.

–IANS

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