Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'Charismatic PM' that was published in Newsband

Charismatic PM

Western countries seem to be very much attracted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. That speaks volumes for Modi’s charisma. After the visit of American and French diplomats to India, it is now the turn of the British. The visit to India by British Foreign Secretary William Hague and Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne is part of a growing trend of major powers stepping up their engagement with the Narendra Modi government so that Modi’s foreign policies are in their favour.  

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin was also in New Delhi. He expressed Russia’s intention to rope in India as a strategic energy partner — as a consumer of Russian gas that would be transited through China.

The defence element also seemed strong during talks between the British and the Indian counterparts. In fact, British appear to be competing with the French. This became clear when attempt was made by the British to convince the Indian government that Typhoon jets that the British are involved in producing would better protect Indian skies than the French Rafale. Besides, the terms of Indian government should come still closer to United Kingdom after considering the fact that unlike as in the past, Indian companies have become major investors in Britain. London remains a leading financial centre, and no country in the world can ignore its importance to global commerce.

Modi's stance could be impressing foreign dignitaries on two counts i.e. one in regard to the scope for enabling collaboration in defence manufacturing and another how he could manage to get an absolute majority for his party. The foreign countries would like to personally evaluate the PM so that they will know what sort of a gentleman they are dealing with. Apart from these, of course, each country has its own agenda. PM's initial stance of being a good neighbour to our neighbouring countries must have made the foreign countries think what his future course of action could be. Anyway, on foreign policy India should develop a consistent approach and be able to take definite stand on merit on issues of concern. The trend augurs well.

Our PM has been developing India's ties with other countries from the very first day and seeing the enthusiasm from abroad towards his government, he should take full advantage of the situation to deepen ties and lock attractive deals.

Business is uppermost in the minds of all European Union (EU) countries as are in USA and Russia. India needs technology and products for its Defence and reliable partners to go ahead with Defence, Energy and Infrastructure Projects. At the same time, India cannot turn their face against any country. India has to adopt an even approach while prioritising our needs and long term partnerships.