Indian PM speaks to leaders of 5 neighbouring countries on New Year

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held telephone conversations with leaders of five neighbouring countries on the occasion of the New Year, officials said.

Modi extended new year greetings to the leaders of Bhutan, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Bangladesh and Nepal during his conversations.

"On the occasion of the New Year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today had telephone conversation with Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck - the Druk Gyalpo of Kingdom of Bhutan and Lyonchhen (Prime Minister of Bhutan) Lotay Tshering, Gotabaya Rajapaksa - President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa - Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih - President of the Maldives, Sheikh Hasina - Prime Minister of Bangladesh and K. P. Sharma Oli - Prime Minister of Nepal," a statement issued by the Indian Prime Minister's Office said.

During the conversations, Modi emphasised India's commitment to the "Neighbourhood First" policy.

"Prime Minister conveyed to the leaders his New Year greetings and good wishes on behalf of the people of India and on his own behalf," the statement said.

"He emphasized India's commitment to Neighbourhood First policy and the vision of shared peace, security, prosperity and progress for all of India's friends and partners in the region."

Modi stressed upon the enhancement of bilateral relations and cooperation with the heads of neighbouring states in the year ahead.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)