‘Even Pakistanis long for peace’: PM Modi on bilateral relations in first podcast with Lex Fridman

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his thoughts on India’s relationship with Pakistan during his first-ever podcast appearance with a foreign national, engaging in a nearly three-hour conversation with Lex Fridman, released on Sunday.

In the discussion, Modi addressed his past efforts to build peace with Pakistan, stating, "I invited Pakistan for my swearing-in to turn over a new leaf, but each attempt at peace was met with hostility and betrayal." Despite this, he expressed hope that Pakistan would eventually choose the path of peace, adding, "We sincerely hope that wisdom prevails upon Pakistan and they choose the path of peace; even people of Pakistan long for peace."

PM Modi added that his first attempt at improving bilateral relations was a gesture of goodwill.

"It was a diplomatic gesture unlike any in decades. The very people who once questioned my approach to foreign policy were taken aback when they learned I had invited all SAARC heads of state and our then President Pranab Mukherjee beautifully captured that historic gesture in his memoir," Modi said.

"This was a testament to how clear and confident India's foreign policy had become. This sent a clear message to the world about India's commitment to peace and harmony, but we didn't get the desired outcome," he said.

Modi also spoke about the strength he derives from India’s 1.4 billion people. "My strength is not my name 'Modi', it's the 1.4 billion people," he said, emphasising that when he meets world leaders, it represents the collective power of all Indians. "When I shake hands with world leaders, it's not Modi but 1.4 billion Indians doing so."

In discussing India’s role in global peace, Modi remarked, "Whenever we speak of peace, the world listens to us because India is the land of Gautam Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi."

The Prime Minister also touched on the importance of criticism in a democracy, stating, "I welcome criticism; I have a strong belief that it is the soul of democracy."