New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday highlighted the complementary nature of India's Act East policy and Thailand's Act West policy, emphasizing that both promote mutual progress and prosperity, strengthening the ties between the two nations.
In a video message during the SAMVAD (Global Hindu-Buddhist Initiative) program in Thailand, PM Modi expressed his happiness that the event was being held there. He acknowledged the country's rich culture, history, and heritage as a testament to the shared philosophical and spiritual traditions between India and Thailand.
He emphasised that the two nations have a long-standing cultural bond that spans over 2000 years, united by texts such as the Ramayana and Ramakien, as well as a common reverence for Bhagwan Buddha.
"I am delighted that this edition of SAMVAD is taking place in Thailand. Thailand has a rich culture, history and heritage. It stands as a beautiful example of the shared philosophical and spiritual traditions of Asia. India and Thailand share deep cultural ties that span over 2000 years. The Ramayan and Ramakien connect us. Our shared reverence for Bhagwan Buddha unites us," PM Modi said.
"Last year, when we sent holy relics of Bhagwan Buddha to Thailand, millions of devotees paid their respects. Our nations also share a vibrant partnership across multiple sectors. India's Act East policy and Thailand's Act West policy complement each other, promoting mutual progress and prosperity. This conference marks another successful chapter in our friendship," he added.
PM Modi also took a moment to honour his late friend, Shinzo Abe, recalling that the idea for SAMVAD emerged from conversations he had with the former Japanese Prime Minister in 2015.
"I take this opportunity to remember my friend Shinzo Abe. In 2015, the idea of SAMVAD emerged from my conversations with him. Since then, SAMVAD has travelled across various countries, fostering debate, dialogue and deeper understanding," the PM said.
Shinzo Abe, Japan's longest-serving Prime Minister and former leader of the Liberal Democratic Party, was assassinated on July 8, 2022, in Nara, Japan, during an election campaign address. He was taken to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
This term around, the two-day SAMVAD (Global Hindu Buddhist Initiative) programme is being held in Bangkok, Thailand under the banner of "Samvad IV: Global Hindu Buddhist Initiative for Conflict Avoidance and Environment Consciousness - The Century of Dharma - Dhamma".