"Today, there is a surge of democracy across the world; including in South Asia.
"In Afghanistan, we are at a historic moment of democratic transition and affirmation of unity," Modi said in his maiden address to the UN General Assembly.
Speaking in Hindi, mostly extempore with help from bullet points, Modi said Afghans are showing that their desire for a peaceful and democratic future will prevail over violence.
"Democracy is trying to find a voice in West Asia and North Africa; Tunisia's success makes us believe that it is possible," he said.
"There is a new stirring for stability, progress and progress in Africa," Modi said, adding that there is unprecedented spread of prosperity in Asia and beyond, rising on the strength of peace and stability.
"Latin America, a continent of enormous potential, is coming together in shared pursuit of stability and prosperity, which could make it an important anchor of the world," said the Prime Minister.
"India is a country that constitutes one-sixth of humanity; a nation experiencing economic and social transformation on a scale rarely seen in history," he noted.
"Every nation's world view is shaped by its civilisation and philosophical tradition.
"India's ancient wisdom sees the world as one family. It is this timeless current of thought that gives India an unwavering belief in multilateralism," he said.
"Today, as I stand here, I am equally aware of the hopes that are pinned on this great assembly. I am struck by the sacred belief that brought us together," he said.
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