Officer trainees of the Indian Foreign Service call on the President

Addressing the officer-trainees, the President said that they are joining the Indian Foreign Service at an exciting time. India is expanding its global footprint.

"We are securing our interests in every part of the world. We are also taking the lead on critical issues affecting global peace, security and progress, be it fighting terrorism or enhancing efforts to combat climate change. Our aspirations place new responsibilities on the IFS, and the President was confidentthat the officer-trainees would make the best of the opportunity," Kovind said.

The President said that in today’s hyper-connected world, diplomacy has become an essential component of domestic action.

There is an international connect to every aspect of our country’s growth and development, be it clean energy, Digital India, Skill India, Make in India, or building high-speed rail networks.

"As such, economic diplomacy is a priority for us," he said.

The President said that the job for the Indian Foreign Service Officers is clearly laid out. They have to maintain robust relations with all our friends and partners to fashion a secure and prosperous environment and meet our developmental aspirations.

They have to engage, contest and reconstruct global governance structures that adequately reflect and accommodate our interests.