Sushma Swaraj Lectures 2021 on Introduction to India for Resident Foreign Diplomats

Sushma Swaraj Lectures 2021 on Introduction to India for Resident Foreign Diplomats

[New Delhi, 21-22 October 2021]

The Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS), MEA and the India Foundation jointly organized the second edition of the ‘Sushma Swaraj Lectures (SSL 2021) on Introduction to India’ for resident foreign diplomats from 21-22 October 2021 under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM). The first edition was organized in two parts in October and November 2020. The overarching objective of the lecture series was to introduce India to foreign diplomats resident in India.

The inaugural address was delivered by Secretary (East), Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das. In her address, she described the ethos of Indian civilization as one based on Co-existence, Co-operation and Partnership. She spoke about the core principles of pluralism, openness, dialogue and democratic values as the mainstay of India’s engagement with the world. She referred to India as a civilization which believes in creating bridges of trust and enduring friendships and shared how India’s foreign policy firmly believed in Diplomacy for Development. Secretary (East) hailed India as a nation which stood for a democratic, rules-based international order, as a source of stability and key contributor to growth and security in the region. She mentioned that India aims to be a just and fair power. She described the Indian diplomatic ideals of Samman (dignity), Samvaad (dialogue), Samriddhi (shared prosperity), Suruaksha (regional and global security) and Sanskriti and Sabhayata (cultural and civilizational links) which were, in turn, interlinked with India’s broader political and economic goals. She mentioned that India as a country aspires to Make in India, an ‘Atmanirbhar’ or self-reliant India, to be a Digital India, to be a Clean India and as a nation that is constantly reforming, adapting and innovating.

The Valedictory Address, on 22 October, was delivered by Mr. Ram Madhav, Member, Board of Governors, India Foundation on India’s Global Vision.  

In SSL 2021, fifty diplomats from forty-three countries took part. The programme included lectures on Indian history, polity, economy, culture and foreign policy which were delivered by eminent speakers including Members of Parliament, senior Government officials and academicians.

The Foreign Service Institute (FSI) was renamed as the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS) on 14 February 2020, the birth anniversary of former External Affairs Minister late Smt. Sushma Swaraj, as a solemn tribute to her exceptional and invaluable contribution to Indian diplomacy, ethos of public service and for her focus on training.

22 October 2021
New Delhi.