Modi woos Singapore with reforms card, says FDI is 'first develop India'

Singapore: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the Indian diaspora in Singapore on Tuesday, said that India is a 'living example of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.

"India is the nation which not only follows but also shows the world the idea that the whole world is one family", he said.

While lauding NRI's effort in changing India's image in the global map, Modi said, "I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart. Today the world looks towards India with great faith. You played a great role in this. The way you merged into every nation, it's commendable."

"I am here to invite you to India in a bigger way. India has to learn a lot from Singapore. There is a lot that Singapore can teach us and the one example is cleanliness. The world has become interdependent. No nation can afford to remain isolated," he added.

Recalling a question once asked by a journalist before the Lok Sabha election, Modi said, "He asked me before the elections, Modi ji how will your foreign policy be. They thought I am not experienced enough."

"All, I would like to say that India requires foreign investment. I feel FDI is also 'first develop India'. There is an increase in FDI since we have taken office. India's currency must gain more respect at the world level. Today we are entered the global market with our Rupee Bond, until now it was only dollar, pound or gold. Any global citizen can now invest in the rupee bond. The rupee bond signifies India's liberation," he said.

On the context of make in India, he questioned, "Should a nation of 125 crore people rely on other nations for defence equipment? Why can't we make it? India even imports tear gas shells. We import also for our tears. I do not know whether to laugh or cry. India has youth, talent and talent to make its own weapons. When the country is full of youthfulness, ambitions, dreams and manhood become also youthful".

He also talked about GIAN (Global Initiative of Academic Networks), which will enable foreign faculty members to teach in Indian institutions.

Modi is scheduled to arrive in India on Tuesday night.

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