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India being looked at with renewed respect, enthusiasm: Modi

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In a report card to citizens on his 10-day, three-nation visit during which he met 38 world leaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 21 said this country of 1.25 billion people was being looked at with renewed respect and enthusiasm today, even as its counsel that black money must be curbed since it promotes terror and destabilises world peace has created a strong global resonance. Writing in his blog a day after ending his visit to Myanmar, Australia and Fiji, Modi also said that India was at the forefront in placing the issue of black and this secured a strong support in battling this menace, notably at the G20 Summit in Brisbane. "I am glad the world community took note of this because this is an issue that does not selectively affect one nation," he said. "The menace of black money has the potential to destabilize world peace and harmony. It also brings with it terrorism, money laundering and narcotics trade." Underlining the "historic uniqueness" of his 10-day visit, the prime minister said he met with a total of 38 world leaders and had 20 bilateral meetings, during which he had "frank, comprehensive and fruitful" discussions. "During these bilateral meetings, I noticed one thing - that the world is looking at India with renewed respect and immense enthusiasm! I see a global community that is tremendously keen to engage with India." On his first halt in Myanmar, Modi attended the East Asia and the ASEAN summits before getting into bilateral with Myanmar leaders. He then took part in the G-20 Summit in Australia, after which he went to Fiji. The prime minister also spoke about his business and economic agenda during the visit and said the strengthening trade and commerce and drawing the global industry to India was a central part of the discussions he had during the visit. "Numerous leaders I met were very optimistic about our 'Make in India' initiative and were keen to come to India and be a part of the extensive and diverse opportunities India has to offer," he said. "I see this as a positive sign." A star attraction at every public meeting he attended during the visit, Modi also said the Indian diaspora must be a part of India's development, and paid rich tributes to their contributions to both their countries of origin and origin. "On a personal note, the affection from the Indian community was touching," he said. "Be it in Myanmar, Australia and Fiji, I will not be able to describe their warmth in words. I could see that they were proud of India and the changes happening in India. I could see dreams and expectations in their eyes." Modi had also announced visa-on-arrival facilities during the visit. The prime minister said he and his Australian counterpart Tony Abbott made unprecedented progress in the areas of energy, culture and security and were moving very positively on the issue of nuclear energy. As regards his talks with the ASEAN leaders, Modi said  India and this regional grouping could explore new frontiers together. Similarly, he said Pacific Island nations whose leaders he met in Fiji has a lot to offer India. "There is a lot we can learn from them." On the whole, the prime minister's focus was on a resurgent India. "I am convinced, with even greater consciousness, of the positive difference India can make on the world stage."