In Manila, PM Narendra Modi takes a swipe at China

Addressing a gathering of the Indian community in Manila, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at China in a veiled reference to China's expansionist policy.

"If you see the history of India, it has believed in giving rather than asking. Moreover, it has never believed in snatching," said PM Modi smilingly.

Modi knew his remark would resonate with his audience in Manila. The South China Sea had been a thorny issue between China and Philippines. The latter had even filed an arbitration in an International court. Though the court ruled in favour of Philippines, China refused to recognise the verdict.

Modi also said that India had always believed in peace. "India has always contributed to world peace. Our contingent in the UN Peacekeeping Forces is among the biggest. India is the land of Mahatma Gandhi, peace is integral to our culture," he said.

Adding that transforming India was his government's aim, PM said, "Our efforts are aimed at transforming India and ensuring everything in our nation matches global standards."

"If 21st century is considered to be Asia's century, then it becomes our duty to make it India's century and I say it is possible," he said.