While the Indian Parliament witnessed the historic passing of the Waqf Bill, Prime Minister Narendra Modi quietly took off for an equally important mission abroad.
On April 3, 2025, PM Modi landed in Thailand for a two-day official visit to attend the Sixth BIMSTEC Summit. But back home, the internet had its own theories—and jokes.
Some witty users on social media poked fun, saying,
“Modi ji is giving massages to protesting Muslims—from the streets to Thailand!
Modi here, massage there—wah Modi wah!” Of course, it was all in jest.
The reality is much more diplomatic. Modi’s Thailand visit is focused on strengthening regional ties through the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
He received a grand and respectful welcome at Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport,
where Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Jungrungreangkit personally greeted him.
Even the Sikh community welcomed him with a lively Bhangra performance.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister wrote: “Landed in Bangkok, Thailand. Looking forward to participating in the upcoming official engagements and strengthening the bonds of cooperation between India and Thailand.”
The Ministry of External Affairs also echoed this sentiment: “Special maritime neighbours with shared civilizational bonds. PM @narendramodi lands in the vibrant cultural city of Bangkok on an Official Visit. Warmly received by the Deputy PM & Minister of Transport Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit at the airport.”
During the summit, PM Modi is expected to hold extensive discussions with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Additionally, he will meet with Nepal’s Prime Minister and Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Chacha Yunus, aiming to deepen historical ties rooted in shared culture, philosophy, and spiritual values.
In his pre-departure statement, Modi described BIMSTEC as a vital platform that has significantly contributed to regional development, connectivity, and economic growth over the past decade.
“India’s North Eastern region lies at the heart of BIMSTEC due to its geographical location,” he highlighted.
“I look forward to meeting the leaders of the BIMSTEC countries and engaging productively to further strengthen our collaboration with the interests of our people in mind.”
After wrapping up his Thailand visit, the Prime Minister will head to Sri Lanka on April 4 for his first visit since Anura Kumara Dissanayake was elected President. There, he plans to follow up on the progress made since President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s visit to India last December.
“This visit gives us the opportunity to review progress on our shared vision of
‘Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future’ and provide guidance to realise our common goals,” said Modi.
At home, while social media has its fun, PM Modi continues to juggle crucial diplomatic commitments with significant domestic developments. His recent tours are expected to strengthen ties across the Bay of Bengal region, bringing lasting benefits not just for India but for all its neighbours.
In short—while the memes fly fast, the Prime Minister is hard at work.