NEW DELHI, June 12: President Pranab Mukherjee today called upon probationers of the Indian Foreign Service to enhance the prestige and honour of India in foreign countries through dedicated service to the motherland.
Addressing a group of 34 probationers of IFS(2011 batch) who called on him at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President asked them to hone their skills in economic diplomacy and energy and food security and achieve specialised knowledge in these areas.
The President pointed out the sea change the world is undergoing, with the global economy still fragile and yet to recover from the financial crisis.
There have been major political changes in West Asia, Africa and India’s neighbourhood, Mr Mukherjee said.
The job and responsibilities entrusted upon the young Foreign Service officers, Mr Mukherjee said, is daunting but they would have an opportunity to show their mettle and initiative.
“India’s foreign policy must constantly adapt to the changing world in which there is recognition that bulk of global growth is coming from emerging economies, especially China and India.
” India has an important place today in all major international fora including G 20,” he said.
Regarding the Indian economy, the President said there was reason for concern but not despondency as it achieved 7.9 per cent growth in the last ten years, much higher than any other period since 1951.
(UNI)
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