What binds strangers in a foreign land? Modi has a view

Tashkent (Uzbekistan): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that a common language binds strangers who meet in a foreign land, adding that people-to-people contact is important as far as ties between nations are concerned.

"I believe that for personality development, language plays a huge role. A common language binds strangers who meet in a foreign land. Language is a window to the immense amount of knowledge that it offers," the Prime Minister said, which addressing a gathering of indologists and scholars in Tashkent.

"People-to-people contact is important as far as ties between nations are concerned. Cultural ties are also important," he added.

The Prime Minister also said that he was pleasantly surprised to learn that the Uzbek President knows Indian songs.

"The cultural programme today indicated the dedication of those who performed. Yesterday I had detailed discussions with the President and Prime Minister of Uzbekistan. At the dinner, Indian songs were sung. And surprisingly, the President knew about all the music," he said.

"This trip has been very fruitful and full of good memories. I am sure our nations together will cultivate a great relationship," he added.

Prime Minister Modi, who arrived in Tashkent yesterday on the first leg of his eight-day tour to five central Asian countries and Russia, had said that India is looking forward to combating the menace along with Uzbekistan.

He also added that India was looking forward to expanding bilateral ties with Uzbekistan in matters related to economic cooperation, advancing stability and promoting regional integration.