Former Norwegian diplomat Erik Solheim wished Prime Minister Narendra Modi a happy birthday today and highlighted five major changes in India during his government’s tenure.
Erik Solheim, former Minister of Climate and the Environment of Norway, reflected on Prime Minister Modi’s political tenure and outlined five areas that, in his view, have undergone significant changes. He identified “Direction” as the first major change, saying PM Modi had given India a new purpose through his leadership and emphasis on the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ or a developed India by 2047. On infrastructure, Solheim said that the Modi government had overseen a major expansion in roads, railways, airports and ports.
Solheim also highlighted the environment as another area of change. He said India had moved from being behind Europe on environmental issues to becoming the world’s second-largest solar market and third-largest renewable economy. He cited India’s leadership of the G20 and BRICS and said the country had become more visible and influential internationally.
The fifth area identified by Solheim was “Pride”. He said PM Modi had contributed to a renewed sense of pride in India by emphasising Indian traditions, history and cultural heritage.
Several foreign diplomats and missions in New Delhi extended warm wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday, while reflecting the close bond and enduring partnership India shares with countries worldwide under his leadership. The US Embassy in India conveyed heartfelt birthday greetings to PM Modi on behalf of US President Donald Trump.
Japan’s Ambassador to India, Ono Keiichi, hailed Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in advancing the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’, while expressing hope that the India-Japan partnership would reach greater heights as the two countries prepare to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations next year.
Australian High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, recalled the warmth surrounding PM Modi’s recent visit to the island nation and the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.
Extending warm birthday greetings to PM Modi, Slovak Ambassador Robert Maxian also recalled the “warmth, friendship and memorable moments” during the Indian leader’s recent visit to Slovakia.
