External affairs minister S. Jaishankar on Saturday said Odisha needs a BJP government for speedy development.

Jaishanker met intellectuals of the city, editors of various newspapers and local TV channels and shared his thoughts on a range of issues, including politics, the need for a BJP government in Odisha and foreign policy matters ranging from Pakistan, China, Nepal to Russia-Ukraine and Iran-Israel wars.

Later, the minister addressed a media conference.

He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a lot of respect and affection for the state. “The iconic Konark Sun Temple wheel took centre stage at the G-20 Summit in Delhi. Odisha holds a special place in the heart of Prime Minister Modi,” he said.

He also gave details to prove how Odisha has benefitted under the Modi regime during the past 10 years. He said the state received Rs 18 lakh crore during this period.

“Twenty passport support centres have come up in the state, Besides, 2.7 lakh people have got houses under the PM Awas Yojana. As many as 1.4 crore people have benefitted from Jan Dhan Yojana and 53 lakh women have got gas connections under the Ujjwala Yojana.”

Appealing to people to vote for BJP, Jaishankar said: “The state will realise its full potential with Modi government in Delhi. This time, people of Odisha will repose their faith in the BJP. We want the BJP government in Odisha, so that it works effectively with Modi sarkar in Delhi.”

On the issue of national security, Jaishankar said it would never be compromised and cited the example of the Uri and Balakot strikes.

He also cited how Modi ki Guarantee works even beyond borders and how students were brought back from Ukraine and other war-hit zones.

The external affairs minister was also confident of the BJP winning more than 400 seats.

“India needs strong leadership and a strong government to deal with international issues,” said the external affairs minister.