Diplomacy & culture interlinked, will showcase India’s soft power: Meenakshi Lekhi

Lok Sabha MP and eminent lawyer Meenakshi Lekhi has been appointed as Minister of State for External Affairs and the Culture Ministry. She spoke to The Daily Guardian as to how she will club work of the two ministries to serve the country and the national capital. Excerpts:

Q: The PM has given a big responsibility to you as two portfolios have been handed over to you. What are going to be your priorities?

A: The country must get right projection around the globe. Diplomacy and culture are interlinked and you may say that they are complimentary to each other. Therefore, we will showcase the soft power of India and will ensure that a positive image of the country goes around. We will tell the world how India had given so much to humanity and if there is anything good about a foreign country, we will try to replicate it here as well. 

Q: PM Modi always speaks about good governance. How will you ensure this in your own ministries?

A: Transparency is the first and foremost thing. We will work with honesty and ensure corruption-free governance. Will take merit-based decisions and policy would be just for all. These are the key elements of good governance preached by PM Modi. 

Q: You come from Delhi, only MP now from national capital. How you will serve people here in Delhi?

A: Delhi is our national capital and all embassies are located here only. Luckily, I got elected from that part of Delhi only. The history of Delhi dates back to the Pandava era when this was Indraprastha and even after that, entire history revolves around Delhi only. I will try and ensure that Delhi gets recognition on the world map and people know about its rich heritage.