The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor: A 21st Century Game-Changer

President Droupadi Murmu has hailed the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as one of the most significant initiatives of the 21st century. Addressing a joint session of Parliament, she emphasized that the global order is evolving, with India emerging as a confident and influential player on the world stage.

President Murmu highlighted the government's focus on enhancing connectivity, both regionally and globally. The IMEC, which was conceptualized during the G20 Summit in Delhi in September 2023, is a testament to this vision. It aims to establish an extensive network of roads, railways, and shipping routes linking Saudi Arabia, India, the United States, and Europe, fostering greater integration across Asia, the Middle East, and the West.

The agreement to develop IMEC was signed by key international players, including India, Saudi Arabia, the European Union, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States. This collaborative effort underscores the project's importance and potential impact on global trade and connectivity.

President Murmu underscored India's role as a proactive contributor to global solutions, particularly through its human-centric approach. India has positioned itself as a "Vishwa-Bandhu" or friend of the world, offering assistance and solutions in crises, from natural disasters to health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. India's leadership was also evident during its G20 presidency, which saw the African Union being made a permanent member of the G20, bolstering the confidence of Africa and the Global South.

Murmu also touched on India's foreign policy priorities, which include strengthening ties with neighboring countries and enhancing cooperation with the Indo-Pacific region. The participation of leaders from seven neighboring countries in the swearing-in ceremony of the Union Council of Ministers reflected India's commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" policy.

The president highlighted India's significant achievements, such as spearheading global initiatives like the International Year of Millets in 2023 and making substantial progress towards climate goals. India's leadership in sustainable practices and its commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions ahead of schedule have inspired many countries.

In her address, President Murmu also noted the world's recognition of India's stable political environment, as evidenced by the recent Lok Sabha elections, where the people of India elected a stable government with a clear majority for the third consecutive term. This political stability, occurring for the first time in six decades, further enhances India's global stature.

President Murmu concluded by affirming that India's global prestige is on the rise, with the nation playing a pivotal role in addressing global challenges and contributing to a new, dynamic global order.