Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his pride and appreciation for the Christian community’s contribution to the nation, especially in the fields of education, health, social service, and development. He made these remarks during his historic visit to the Vatican City on October 30, 2021, where he met Pope Francis for the first time.
Modi said that India has a long and rich history of co-existence and harmony among different religions and faiths. He said that India is a land of diversity and pluralism, where every religion is respected and protected by the constitution. He said that India’s secularism is not a threat to any religion, but a guarantee for all.
Modi also highlighted the achievements and initiatives of various Christian leaders and institutions in India, such as Nobel laureate Amartya Sen, former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Mother Teresa, Archbishop Oswald Gracias, Father S Shankar, and many others. He said that these eminent personalities have inspired millions of Indians with their vision, values, and service.
Modi also praised the role of Christian missionaries in spreading education, health care, social welfare, and development across India. He said that many Christian schools have produced world-class scholars and professionals who have contributed to the nation’s progress. He also appreciated the efforts of Christian organizations in providing relief and assistance to people affected by natural disasters, pandemics, poverty, and violence.
Modi also thanked Pope Francis for his guidance and support to India’s development agenda. He said that Pope Francis has shown great interest in India’s culture, history, spirituality, and challenges. He said that Pope Francis has also advocated for peace, justice, human dignity, environmental protection, interfaith dialogue, and global solidarity.
Modi said that he had a fruitful discussion with Pope Francis on various issues of mutual concern and shared responsibility. He said that they agreed on strengthening the bilateral relations between India and Vatican City based on mutual respect and cooperation. He also invited Pope Francis to visit India at an appropriate time.
Modi concluded his speech by saying that he was honored to meet Pope Francis as a fellow son of God who loves humanity. He said that he was grateful for the warm welcome he received from the Catholic community in Rome. He said that he hoped that this meeting would pave the way for more fruitful interactions between India’s religious leaders in the future.
The meeting between PM Modi and Pope Francis was widely covered by national media outlets. It was seen as a landmark event in India’s foreign policy as well as its religious landscape. It was also hailed as a sign of friendship and solidarity between two countries with common values and aspirations.
