New Delhi: Unveiling the Union government’s foreign policy vision on Monday, the President in his speech during the joint session of the Parliament indicated that the Centre could adopt a tough stand when it comes to national interest.
Reading out his speech, in which at least two pages were dedicated for foreign policy, the President said that the government would “never shy away from raising issues of concern to us at a bilateral level”.
In an indirect reference to Pakistan’s involvement in terror attacks on India, the government said that prosperity can only come from stability in the region and this “requires sensitivity to security concerns and an end to export of terrorism to neighbours”.
Countries like the US, China, Japan and Russia came in for particular mention.
Regarding Indo-US ties, the President said it would “bring a renewed vigour to our engagement” and intensify it in sectors like trade, investment, science and technology, energy and education.
On homefront, the return of Kashmiri Pandits would be a priority for the government as the President said, “Special efforts will be made to ensure that Kashmiri Pandits return to the land of their ancestors with full dignity, security and assured livelihood.”
Outlining the government’s plans on defence procurement, the President said, “My government will carry out reforms in defence procurement to increase efficiency and economy. It will encourage domestic industry, including the private sector to have a larger share in design and production of defence equipment.”
He also spoke about “liberalised foreign direct investment and assured establishment of a National Maritime Authority, construction of a National War Memorial to honour the gallantry of Indian soldiers and establishment of a veterans commission to address the grievances of ex-servicemen.
The government also resolved to reach out to Indians living abroad.
