Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the urgent need for India and China to resolve their border disputes, a longstanding issue spanning their 3,440km (2,100-mile) frontier in the Himalayas. In a rare interview with Newsweek magazine, Modi highlighted the importance of peaceful relations between the two nations, stressing its significance not only for their region but also for global stability. While refraining from directly addressing allegations of Chinese encroachment on Indian territory, Modi underscored the imperative of constructive bilateral engagement to restore and maintain peace along the borders. He also discussed India’s potential as a manufacturing hub, attracting interest from global giants seeking to diversify their supply chains.
Modi’s interview, conducted just days before India’s general election, provided insights into his government’s stance on various issues, including allegations of discrimination against minorities and concerns about press freedoms. Modi dismissed such allegations as misrepresentations by individuals disconnected from the realities of India, asserting that minorities of all religions thrive happily in the country. Regarding press freedoms, he criticized certain quarters for misinterpreting dissent as a suppression of media freedom, attributing it to their detachment from the Indian populace’s sentiments and aspirations.