The success of the G20 Summit that was held in Delhi is “that of 140 crore citizens… not that of any individual or party”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday as he opened discussions on the first day of Parliament’s special session – one that will see MPs shift to the new building.
“Today… you have unanimously appreciated the success of G20. I express my gratitude to you. The success of G20 success is that of 140 crore citizens of the country. It is India’s success (and) not that of an individual or a party. It is a matter for all of us to celebrate,” the Prime Minister said.
“India will be proud the African Union became a member (of the G20) when it was President… I cannot forget the emotional moment when the announcement was made… (the) African Union President (Azali Assoumani, President of Comoros) said, ‘Perhaps I will break down while speaking’.”
The Prime Minister also referred to the historic Delhi Declaration and said negotiating the joint communique from G20 leaders underlined India’s strength and standing in the world.
The Delhi Declaration was seen as nearly impossible till hours before it was announced due to complexities arising from Russia’s war on Ukraine and the West’s stance on the conflict.
“You can imagine (role) India had to fulfil… such huge hopes and expectations. It (was) India’s strength that (made) it (the declaration) possible,” Prime Minister Modi declared.
Addressing a packed House, the PM also recalled “many bitter-sweet memories (of the old building)” and highlighted achievements and landmark moments associated with the iconic old Parliament, including the terror attack of 2001 and the role of the parliament building in colonial times.
“Bidding goodbye to this building is an emotional moment…many bitter-sweet memories have been associated with it. We have all witnessed differences and disputes but, at the same time, we have witnessed ‘parivaar bhaav’, or ‘a feeling of family’,” the Prime Minister said in his speech.
Striking several nostalgic notes, PM Modi also praised the Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission and said India’s space agency had “made the world proud… highlighted a new form of India’s strength”.
