Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – In a poignant ceremony on Tuesday, India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, presided over the unveiling of a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Gandhi's values and beliefs in the modern world.

In his address, Jaishankar underscored the profound importance of this event in fostering the friendship between India and Vietnam. He described Mahatma Gandhi as an iconic figure of our times, whose commitment to truth, non-violence, and the quest for independence and freedom earned global recognition, as epitomized by the United Nations designating October 2nd as International Day of Non-Violence.

Addressing the audience, Jaishankar highlighted that Gandhi's impact extended far beyond India, inspiring nations, continents, and people worldwide to pursue their own quests for independence and self-determination. "His influence," he noted, "extends beyond the boundaries of our nations."

Moreover, Jaishankar stressed that Gandhi's principles continue to exert a profound influence not only in India but also throughout the world. He cited initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission (Clean India program) and efforts to bridge gender disparities as examples of the enduring relevance of Gandhi's ideas.

"The installation of this memorial holds tremendous significance, not only for India and Vietnam but for the entire world," Jaishankar declared.

Reflecting on the event, Jaishankar shared, "The unveiling of the Mahatma Gandhi bust in Tao Dan Park, Ho Chi Minh City, holds immense significance, as it underscores the principles of independence, self-reliance, and human dignity that unite India and Vietnam. I am privileged to have participated in the inauguration alongside Vice Chairman Duong Anh Duc."

Prior to the ceremony, Minister Jaishankar held a meaningful meeting with Nguyen Van Nen, the Party Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, where he expressed appreciation for Ho Chi Minh City's contributions to the India-Vietnam partnership.

On October 16th, Jaishankar also had the honor of meeting former Vietnamese Foreign Minister Nguyen Dy Nien. He noted, "A memorable conversation with Nguyen Dy Nien, former Vietnamese Foreign Minister (2000-06). As an alumnus of BHU in the 1950s, his affection for India and Varanasi was deeply moving."

Additionally, on Monday, Jaishankar met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, expressing gratitude for the Prime Minister's guidance in further enhancing the India-Vietnam relationship. He wrote on 'X', "Honored to meet with PM Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam. Conveyed the greetings of PM Narendra Modi. Appreciated his counsel in advancing our bilateral ties. A stronger India-Vietnam partnership contributes to a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific."

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