July 28th 2024.
Tokyo: On Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke about the timeless message of Mahatma Gandhi that still holds true today, amidst the conflicts, polarisation, and bloodshed that the world is currently facing. He made these remarks while unveiling a bust of the global Indian icon at Freedom Plaza in Edogawa, Tokyo.
Jaishankar, who had just arrived in Japan from Laos for a two-day visit, was welcomed by India's Ambassador to Japan, Sibi George. During the event, he highlighted the relevance of Gandhi's messages in the present times.
"At a time when the world is filled with so much tension and violence, it is important to remember Gandhiji's message that solutions do not come from war and no era should be defined by it. This message is just as important today as it was 80 years ago," Jaishankar said.
He also emphasized Gandhi's teachings on sustainability, climate friendliness, and green growth, stating that he was the pioneer of these concepts. "Gandhiji showed us how to live in harmony with nature, and his message of personal responsibility towards environmental protection is something that we must pass on," he added.
Jaishankar also acknowledged Gandhi's advocacy for inclusiveness, which is reflected in India and the world today. He praised the decision of Edogawa Ward to build a relationship with India by unveiling the statue of "the father of our nation" in their community.
While Gandhi is widely known as the father of India, Jaishankar reminded that he is also a global icon, and the presence of his statue in Tokyo serves as a reminder of his timeless achievements and teachings. "The impact of Gandhi's actions and ideas has surpassed his time and continues to hold significance even today," he said.
The minister also highlighted the role of India's independence in decolonizing the world and setting off a chain of events that led to a more multipolar world. "India's freedom struggle was the starting point for many other countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America to gain their independence. Today, as we proudly claim to be the fifth largest economy in the world and witness the shift towards a multipolar world, we must remember that it all began with Gandhi's actions," Jaishankar stated.
In conclusion, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to strengthen the bonds between India and Japan through this event. He believed that this statue would serve as a reminder of the shared history and values of the two nations and inspire the Indian community in Tokyo to continue flourishing.
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