Amid J&K unrest, controversy over Zakir Naik, PM Modi warns of 'preachers of hate and violence'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the University of Nairobi and said that the world must condemn whose who give shelter to terrorists.

Pic courtesy: PIB India

Nairobi: In an apparent reference to Pakistan from where several anti-India terror groups carry out strikes in India with the support of Pakistani establishment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the world must condemn those who give shelter to terrorist and use them as political instruments. 

Modi was addressing students at the University of Nairobi today along with the President of Kenya as he recalled contributions of prominent Kenyans, from Wangari Maathai to Lupita Nyongo. 

Amidst growing heat on Islamic preacher Zakir Naik and soaring protests in Jammu and Kashmir over the recent killing of Hizbul Mujahideen militant Burhan Wani, PM Modi, without mentioning Naik in his speech, warned that 'preachers of hate and violence are threatening the society'. 

"Terrorism knows no boundaries, no religion, no race and no values. We live in a world where preachers of hate and violence are threatening the fabric of our society," PM Modi said.

"As young dynamic citizens of Kenya and as members of the African society, you would need to be watchful of those who spread radical ideologies. And, be equally condemning of those who give shelter to terrorists and use them as political instruments," he added further.

PM: We must be equally condemning of those who give shelter to terrorists and use them as political instruments — Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) July 11, 2016

Talking about the need to counter radicalization, PM Modi said, "Youth can play an important role in building a counter-narrative to extremist ideologies.

PM on the need to counter radicalization: Youth can play an important role in building a counter narrative to extremist ideologies — Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) July 11, 2016

His comments assume significance in view of the expanding footprint of ISIS terror group, which is particularly attracting the youth through a campaign of radicalisation.

On maritime security

Turning to maritime security, PM Modi said, 'there is a need to stand guard against sea-borne threats'. He also pressed the need for ensuring that piracy does not affect the movements in the maritime area and that freedom of navigation is ensured for all.

Pitching for closer security cooperation with Kenya and other African countries connected with India by the Indian Ocean, he said the eastern coast of Africa is facing challenges.

"Coastal security is a matter of deeper engagement," he said while asking Africa to ensure that its safety is not compromised.

On cooperation with Kenya 

"India is ready to share its experiences and expertise in diversified areas like telecom, agriculture, energy and IT. As you march towards your destiny, you will find in India a trusted and reliable partner," PM Modi told the Kenyans. 

On developmental strides

The Prime Minister, while speaking about developmental strides, said, "A steady march towards our economic goals is indeed a priority. But, we also cannot ignore the safety of our people."

"Both Kenya and India are flourishing democracies. We are two developing nations with peace and prosperity. With significant presence of Indian companies in Kenya, our investment partnership is robust, diverse and vibrant," Modi asserted.

Prior to his speech, the Prime Minister offered floral tributes at a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the university.

PM paying tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at @uonbi. pic.twitter.com/jARhNaYcAD — PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 11, 2016

The sapling planted is the 'Green Heart of East Africa' esp chosen for the occasion by Wangari Maathai foundation pic.twitter.com/PrzCsCxJiE — Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) July 11, 2016

India and Kenya signed seven agreements on Monday following delegation-level talks headed by Modi and Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. Modi arrived in Kenya on Saturday on the final leg of his four-nation African tour.

He will leave for New Delhi later on Monday.