Today, we are not just launching a project that will irrigate land and light up homes. We are reviving a region, restoring hope, renewing life and redefining Afghanistan's future. The dam is a generator not just of electricity but also of optimism and belief in the future of Afghanistan.

Afghanistan's success is a deeply held hope and desire of every Indian. It comes from the love and admiration for Afghans in our hearts. We want to see your democracy strike deep roots; your people unite; and your economy prosper.

The closeness of the India-Afghanistan relationship is not a new phenomenon. It has existed since time immemorial. And as a close friend, ever since India's Independence, we have done and will continue to do whatever is required to be done to see Afghanistan grow and progress as a close friend.

We live in an inter-dependent world. An isolated India is not in our interest.

The blood, sweat and tears of our people are mixed into this earth and have formed between us an eternal bond, written into the soil of this land...Bonds that remind us of ancient links between this region [Afghanistan] and India.

India and Switzerland have both been the voices of peace, understanding and humanitarian values in the world.