Gandhinagar, Dec 16 (NationPress) Over 4,000 delegates from ISAME member nations, along with representatives from the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Africa, have gathered in Gandhinagar for the Lions International ISAME-2025 Forum, establishing Gujarat as a pivotal hub for a significant global dialogue on service and leadership.

During the forum's inauguration, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel emphasized that ISAME-2025 would be instrumental in highlighting leadership, cooperation, and Gujarat’s rich cultural and developmental attributes on a global stage.

This 53rd ISAME Forum of Lions International unites participants from India, South Asia, and the Middle East, along with invited countries, marking the event's third occurrence in Gujarat.

The Chief Minister remarked that the gathering of Lions members on the land of Mahatma Gandhi, Vallabhbhai Patel, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi embodies India’s enduring philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

He noted that under Prime Minister Modi’s guidance, India is emerging as a global partner dedicated to human-centric development, international cooperation, and social welfare driven by soft power.

Describing the forum as a source of motivation and innovation, Patel stated that the convergence of leaders, social workers, and aspiring personalities would inject fresh energy into initiatives that support the most vulnerable segments of society.

He further highlighted the importance of hosting the forum in Gujarat, as it facilitates a comprehensive evaluation of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals alongside Lions International’s essential service programs, aiding in the formation of future strategies.

Emphasizing Lions International’s expansive outreach, the Chief Minister noted that the organization operates through over 49,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and regions, establishing it as one of the world’s largest networks of volunteer service.

Portraying Gujarat as a model for development, Patel asserted that the state has emerged as a national frontrunner in industry, innovation, and emerging sectors, bolstered by robust infrastructure and continuous socio-economic progress. He stated that these attributes have made Gujarat an attractive destination for investors both locally and internationally.

The inaugural session saw the attendance of ISAME-2025 Forum Chair Pravin Chhajed, Lions International President A.P. Singh, senior BAPS saint Brahmavihari Swami, Planning Committee Chair Ramesh Prajapati, and members from the global Lions community.