New walls being erected against free flow of goods & services: VP

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu today hit out at those bringing back protectionism, saying despite the acknowledged need for an Integrated world order, new walls' are being erected to hinder the free flow of goods and services

In an oblique reference to the US, he said, the "return of protectionism" has the potential to adversely impact the global efforts for collective advancement.

Addressing the heads of missions conference of the External Affairs Ministry here, Naidu said, "Despite the acknowledged need for an integrated world order, new walls' are being erected to the free flow of goods and services and people as well. "

He said, "this return of protectionism has the potential to adversely impact the global effort for collective advancement."

Seen as a trade war, US President Donald Trump has threatened China and India with a reciprocal tax or US tariff at levels prevailing in those countries.

 

Naidu also said diplomat should be proactive in shaping global position against terrorism, black money and the fugitives.

"We need to weave the narrative of India by deftly drawing upon the country's unique treasures and the timeless values as well as bring alive the excitement of the current phase of economic growth and transformative momentum in contemporary India," he said.

He cautioned that there are clear signs of turbulence in the present world order.

"As the representatives of India in various capitals of the world, you should be alert, agile and quick in grasping the causes and consequences of such disturbances," he said.

Indian ambassadors should leverage India's moral and material strengths to influence the global discourse through a carefully strategised diplomatic response, he said.

Naidu was addressing over 125 Indian ambassadors at his official residence in the presence of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar.

Talking about enhanced global interest in India after the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's energetic efforts during the last four years, Naidu urged the diplomats to convert this global enthusiasm about India into investments.