'Samvad' only solution to terrorism, climate change: PM

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said 'Samvad' or dialogue is the only way to cut through the deep rooted religious stereotypes and prejudices that divide communities across the world and sow the seeds of conflict between the nations and the societies. "As the inter-connected and inter-dependent world of 21st century battles a number of global challenges, from terrorism to climate change, I am confident that the solutions will be found through Asia's oldest traditions of dialogue and debate," he said.

'I am a product of the ancient Indian tradition that firmly believes in dialogue on difficult issues. The ancient Indian concept of 'Tarka Shastra' is founded on the dialogue and debate as the model for exchange of views and avoidance of conflict.' Mr Modi further said that if man does not nurture nature, then nature reacts in the form of climate change.

Environmental laws and regulations, while essential in any modern society, afford only an inferior protection to nature, he added, calling for "harmonious environmental consciousness." Man must relate to nature, man must revere nature, not merely consider it as a resource to be exploited, he asserted.

Addressing the second edition of "Samvad"- Global Initiative on Conflict Avoidance and Environment Consciousness, being organised in Yangon of Mayanmar today and tomorrow through video conferencing, the Prime Minister said that societies across the world are facing several questions today, such as how to avoid conflict, address a global challenge like climate change or how to live in peace and harmony and secure their lives?

It is only natural that the search for answers be led by the humanity's longest traditions of thought, rooted in various religions, civilisations, and multiple streams of spirituality. Giving illustrations from Indian mythology such as Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, Lord Buddha and Bhakta Prahlada, the Prime Minister said the purpose of each of their actions was to uphold Dharma, which has sustained Indians from ancient to modern times.

The Vivekananda Kendra had, in September 2015, hosted the first edition of this unique conference, representing various religions and traditions, in New Delhi, which had been addressed by the Prime Minister. (UNI)