MEA Rebukes Bhagwant Mann’s ‘Magnesia, Galveaisa, Tarvesia’ Remark On PM Modi’s 5-Nation Visit, Terms It Regrettable

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday responded to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s recent remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign visits, terming them “irresponsible and regrettable.”

Without naming Mann, the MEA said, “We have seen some comments made by a high state authority about India’s relations with friendly countries from the Global South. These remarks are irresponsible and regrettable and do not behove the state authority.”

Punjab CM’s Jibe at PM Modi’s Overseas Visits Triggers Debate

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent five-nation tour, drawing attention and criticism for his sarcastic remarks.

While speaking to reporters, Mann mocked the Prime Minister’s foreign engagements by naming imaginary countries to ridicule what he described as lesser-known destinations. “PM has gone somewhere. I think it is Ghana. He is going to be back and he is welcome. God knows which countries he keeps visiting—‘Magnesia’, ‘Galveaisa’, ‘Tarvesia’,” he said.

Continuing in a sarcastic tone, Mann questioned the relevance of the PM’s visits to nations with small populations, saying, “He doesn’t stay in a country with 140 crore people. He is visiting countries where the population is 10,000 and he is getting the ‘highest awards’ there.”

He further quipped, “Here, 10,000 people gather to watch a JCB... What has he gotten himself into!”

The comments came shortly after PM Modi returned from a five-nation tour, which included visits to Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia. The purpose of the trip was to enhance India’s diplomatic partnerships and strengthen ties with countries in the Global South.

Although the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) did not directly name anyone, it issued a strongly worded statement following Mann’s remarks. 

The timing and tone of Mann’s remarks have sparked sharp reactions, with many questioning the appropriateness of mocking diplomatic efforts that aim to deepen India’s international engagement.

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