Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude to foreign dignitaries who attended his swearing-in ceremony on Sunday, reaffirming India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and global partnerships.

In a message on social media following the ceremony, PM Modi dedicated himself to serving India’s vast population of over 1.4 billion and working with his team of ministers to propel the nation to new heights of progress. He also congratulated all the newly sworn-in ministers.

“I am grateful to all the foreign dignitaries who joined the swearing-in ceremony. India will always work closely with our valued partners in pursuit of human progress,” PM Modi said.

Leaders from India’s neighborhood and the Indian Ocean region, including Nepal’s PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Bhutan’s PM Tshering Tobgay, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth, and Seychelles Vice President Ahmed Afif exchanged greetings with PM Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.

Highlighting the significance of the event, the MEA emphasised, “The visit of the leaders to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his third consecutive term is in keeping with the highest priority accorded by India to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and ‘SAGAR’ vision.”

Earlier, PM Modi also thanked Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates for his congratulatory message, expressing appreciation for their past discussions on the transformative role of technology in governance, healthcare, and India’s commitment to climate change and sustainable development.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Deeply appreciate your message, Bill Gates. Recall our very positive and engaging conversation a few months ago, including on the transformative role of technology in governance and healthcare, and India’s commitment to climate change and sustainable development. We value our partnership for promoting innovation for the benefit of humanity”.

Gates, in an earlier message, extended congratulations to Prime Minister Modi and expressed anticipation for a continued partnership aimed at improving lives through innovation. He commended India’s progress as a hub for innovation and emphasised the potential for further collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

(Inputs from ANI)