I leave today for Kuala Lumpur to attend the XIII Summit of Non Aligned Movement.

This is an important stage in the life of the Movement, when it seeks to revitalise its agenda to meet the demands of the 21st century. The Non Aligned Movement has a contribution to make in the building of a multi-polar world order. It has to fashion an effective economic agenda, which will project the concerns and protect the interests of developing countries in the face of globalisation.

In Kuala Lumpur, we shall be discussing these subjects as well as the political developments in the world today. I hope the collective wisdom of the members of the Non Aligned Movement will result in a clear articulation of developing country perspectives on important issues of the day.

As is customary on such visits, I will take the opportunity to meet a number of other world leaders to exchange views with them on bilateral and multilateral matters. This would, of course, include our host, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad of Malaysia.

I would be addressing the NAM Business Forum on South-South Cooperation. I am happy that a large Indian business delegation will be participating in the Forum.