Former Prime Minister and JDS supremo H. D. Deve Gowda expressed strong appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy approach, particularly his efforts to steer India through the challenges posed by what he described as an “unreasonable and unjust tariff war” initiated by the United States. In a letter addressed to Modi, Gowda commended the Prime Minister for his proactive diplomacy in seeking strategic alternatives and strengthening India’s global partnerships. He highlighted that Modi’s policy of “multi-alignment,” unlike the older framework of non-alignment, is not only pragmatic but also a forward-looking strategy that promises significant long-term benefits for the nation.
Gowda emphasized that India occupies a unique position on the global stage, enjoying an unparalleled blend of economic strength, demographic advantage, and democratic credibility. He asserted that these qualities, combined with the principle of dharma being on India’s side, would eventually compel the United States to reconsider its position toward India. He noted that Modi’s recent visits to Japan and China, and his visible camaraderie with global leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaled more than just routine diplomatic gestures. To him, these moments represented a “new awakening” and possibly the emergence of a redefined world order, with India placed firmly at its center.
In particular, Gowda praised Modi’s consistent engagement on the issue of the Ukraine conflict, remarking that India’s calls for peace were taken seriously across the world because they were backed by sincerity, historical values, and moral weight. He underscored that Modi’s approach showed India as a responsible and principled power capable of balancing competing global interests while upholding fairness and justice.
The JDS leader further explained that the shift from non-alignment to multi-alignment reflects the evolving needs of a changing world. In his view, this policy enables India to interact with the international community on its own terms, prioritizing national interests while still reflecting the cultural depth and civilizational grace that define the country. Such an approach, he said, would make India stand out distinctly from other nations and solidify its global stature.
Gowda concluded his remarks by noting that the current geopolitical and economic situation posed formidable challenges, but Modi’s determination to transform those challenges into opportunities without compromising India’s values was commendable. He lauded the Prime Minister’s patience, confidence, and resilience, calling them qualities essential to guiding India through its present crossroads. Offering his blessings, Gowda expressed hope that Modi would continue to be granted the energy, strength, and health required to lead India with vision and conviction on the world stage.
