BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
In a warm and meaningful interaction that blended spirituality, diplomacy, and shared cultural values, a distinguished Iraqi delegation met Samajwadi Party National President and former Chief Minister Shri Akhilesh Yadav. The delegation, led by Maulana Javed Abdi and represented the revered spiritual leader of Najaf, Ayatollah Sheikh Mohammad Yaqoobi. Among the visitors were Allama Syed Ali Al Yasiri, Allama Syed Ali Naqi Zaidi, Allama Dr. Syed Kalbe Abbas Rizvi Al Ijtehadi, and Allama Sheikh Saleh.
The meeting in Lucknow, described by the Iraqi representatives as “memorable,” touched upon a wide range of topics, from India–Iraq relations to cultural harmony, global peace, and the future of inclusive leadership. The delegation expressed deep admiration for Akhilesh Yadav, noting that under his leadership, India carries the potential to progress with unity and compassion. “He has the ability to take everyone along,” they remarked, highlighting that Akhilesh’s reputation extends well beyond India’s borders. They also shared that people in Iraq hold a genuine fondness for him and see him as a leader who inspires trust and hope.
During their conversation, the Iraqi representatives fondly spoke of the historic ties between India and Iraq. They mentioned that Mahatma Gandhi continues to be deeply respected in Iraq, and that his philosophy is still cherished by the people there. They expressed interest in strengthening parliamentary understanding and even proposed translating Akhilesh Yadav’s speeches from the Indian Parliament into Arabic so that Iraqi lawmakers could learn from his views and vision. Speaking to Arabian Times, the Iraqi delegation shared insights about their nation’s robust petrol production and expressed hope that India and Iraq could further deepen their cultural and trade partnerships. According to them, both nations have immense potential to build stronger economic and social bridges.
Welcoming the delegation warmly, Akhilesh Yadav reiterated India’s timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the belief that the entire world is one family. He emphasized that Indian culture thrives on togetherness, meeting, and mutual respect. “When there is trust, there is brotherhood. And where there is brotherhood, peace flourishes,” he said, adding that progress and prosperity become possible only when societies are rooted in justice and equality. He stressed that no religion supports oppression and that patience, compassion, and fairness lie at the heart of every faith.
Akhilesh Yadav also recalled various public welfare initiatives launched during the Samajwadi government. He spoke about pensions for women, dedicated cycle tracks, free bicycles that supported girls’ education, laptop distribution for youth empowerment, and accessible healthcare services for serious illnesses like heart disease, liver ailments, kidney issues, and cancer. The rollout of the 108 ambulance service and the 1090 women’s safety helpline were also highlighted as milestones in public service delivery.
Impressed by these contributions, the Iraqi representatives praised the Samajwadi government’s work and conveyed heartfelt wishes for Akhilesh Yadav’s health and continued success. In a warm gesture of friendship, they also extended an invitation to him to visit Iraq. This interaction not only deepened mutual respect but also reflected the shared aspirations of two ancient civilizations, India and Iraq, united through culture, values, and a commitment to global harmony.
