The following is the text of the statement by Prime Minister,
Dr. Manmohan Singh prior to his departure to London and New York:
“I leave today on a visit to New York to address the UN General Assembly.
This year’s session of the General Assembly is taking place against the background of multifarious threats and challenges facing the international community. Enhancing the UN’s capacities to meet these challenges is a priority. Central to this process, is reform of the United Nations and restructuring of the Security Council. We will make our case for India’s candidature as Permanent Member of the UN Security Council, which is gaining increasing international support.
During my stay in New York, I will be meeting President George Bush. Both our countries are determined to endow our vital relationship with greater content, particularly in economic and high technology fields. The meeting will also give us an opportunity to discuss international issues of mutual concern and to build on the vast commonalties in our approaches. I will take advantage of being in the United States to convey that the Government is determined to carry forward the process of economic reform, which will increase opportunities for greater economic interaction.
I hope to meet other Heads of State and Government in New York. A meeting with President Musharraf of Pakistan is envisaged. This will be a further step in the ongoing dialogue process with Pakistan. I will also be meeting President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan.
En route, I will be stopping briefly at London. I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Blair to further consolidate a strong and historical relationship. The firm determination of both our countries to carry forward our relations will be reflected in a Joint Declaration on the conclusion of our talks. During my meeting with the CEOs of British industry, I will carry the message that they should partake more actively in the increasing business opportunities in India.”
(Release ID :3913)