Kamal Ghorui
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the Lok Sabha on the ongoing crisis in West Asia, triggered on February 28 when the United States and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran, plunging the Gulf region into turmoil.The continued bombings and strikes across the oil-rich region have posed serious challenges to the global economy, the Prime Minister noted in his address. He also highlighted the large presence of Indian nationals in the region and assured that the government is extending full support to them.He added that Indian missions are in constant touch with the diaspora in the affected areas.
Here are key quotes from PM Modi’s address on West Asia:
- “The crisis in West Asia has negatively impacted the global economy and people.”
- “The West Asia war has created unprecedented challenges for India as well.”
- “The situation in West Asia is worrisome. Over the past 2–3 weeks, EAM S Jaishankar and Union minister Hardeep Puri have briefed the House. This conflict has been ongoing for more than three weeks and is severely impacting the global economy and people’s lives. That is why the world is urging all sides for an early resolution.”
- “India has extensive trade relations with countries at war and affected by the conflict. The region where the conflict is taking place is also an important route for our trade with other countries around the world, particularly for a large portion of our crude oil and gas needs. This region is also important for us for another reason.”
- “Nearly 1 crore Indians live and work in the Gulf countries. Commercial ships operate there. The number of Indian Crew members is also very high. Due to these various reasons, India’s concerns are naturally greater. Therefore, it is essential that a unified voice and consensus reach the world regarding this crisis from the Parliament.”
- “Since this war began, every Indian in the affected countries has been provided assistance. I have spoken over the phone with the heads of state of most West Asian countries for two rounds. All have assured the safety of Indians. During the conflict, some people have lost their lives, and some have been injured.”
- “Our missions in the affected countries are continuously engaged in helping Indians. Whether it’s Indians working there or tourists who have gone there, everyone is being provided with all possible assistance. Our missions are regularly issuing advisories. 24/7 outreach rooms and emergency helplines have been established in India and other affected countries. Through these, all affected people are being provided with the latest information. In times of crisis, the safety of Indians in India and abroad is crucial.”
- “3.75 lakh Indians returned home safely since the beginning of West Asia war.”
- “Since the war began, more than 3,75,000 Indians have returned safely to India. From Iran, nearly 1,000 Indians have returned safely so far, of which over 700 are medical students.”
- “In view of the situation, CBSE has cancelled Class 10 and 12 exams in the schools in Gulf countries and is taking necessary steps to ensure students’ education continues without disruption.”
- “A large quantity of crude oil, gas, fertilisers and many essential items comes to India through the Strait of Hormuz route. Since the war began, the movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz has become very challenging.”
- “Despite this, our government has made efforts to ensure that the supply of petrol, diesel, and gas is not severely impacted. As we all know, the country imports 60% of its LPG requirement. Due to uncertainty in supply, the government has prioritised domestic LPG consumers.”
- “At the same time, domestic production of LPG is also being increased. Continuous efforts have also been made to ensure that the supply of petrol and diesel across the country remains smooth.”
- “India’s role in diplomacy is clear. From the beginning, we have expressed our deep concern about this conflict. I have personally spoken to all the relevant leaders in West Asia. I have urged everyone to de-escalate tensions and end this conflict.”
- “India has condemned attacks on civilians, energy, and transport infrastructure. Attacks on commercial vessels and the blockage of international waterways like the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable. India is continuously making efforts through diplomacy to ensure the safe passage of Indian ships, even in this war-like environment.”
- “India has always advocated for the welfare of humanity and peace. I reiterate that dialogue and diplomacy are the only solutions to this problem. All our efforts are aimed at reducing tensions and ending this conflict. Endangering the lives of anyone in this war is not in the interest of humanity. Therefore, India’s efforts are to encourage all parties to reach a peaceful resolution as soon as possible. When such crises arise, some elements try to exploit them.”
