Jerusalem: Indian President Pranab Mukherjee commended the Indian community for their contribution to the Israeli society. Addressing the Indian diaspora in Jerusalem, he said, “India is very proud of its large diaspora. Indians all over the world are successful not only as dedicated professionals and hard working businessmen, but also as model citizens. They are proud of their contribution to the society in which they choose to live and work, yet they nurture in themselves and their younger generations an enduring Indian-ness and an undying love for their motherland. I commend you all.”
“This is a time of great opportunities in India. A unique transformation is taking place. The country is at the threshold of a new era of rapid economic development. Several recent initiatives of Government have already shown results and a positive impact has been created in key sectors,” he added. “The 'Make in India' campaign to make India an investment and manufacturing destination, the 'Digital India programme' to transform India into a digitally empowered society, 'Smart Cities', 'Model Villages', 'Swachh Bharat' and the 'Clean Ganga mission' are some of the flagship schemes. In the last year alone, Government of India has succeeded in encouraging our people to open almost 140 million bank accounts under 'Jan Dhan Yojna',” President Mukherjee said.
“In the realm of external relations, I am happy to say that Government has intensified India's engagement with her neighbours and all friendly countries across the globe. In August, the Forum for India-Pacific Island Co-operation was hosted in Jaipur; later this month, New Delhi shall host the largest ever gathering, in India, of Heads of State and Government of the African Continent in the 3rd Summit of the India -Africa Forum.”
“India is working with like-minded countries in multilateral organisations, including the United Nations to play an enhanced role in diverse fora - from the Arctic Council and the Pacific Alliance to the UN Security Council where India has made a legitimate claim to permanent membership. The potential of India now has a stronger resonance. Our circle of friends has expanded. India's efforts for inclusive economic growth and social advancement have shown the way to many developing countries,” he said.
The President who is on a five-day state visit to Jordan, Palestine and Israel landed in Tel Aviv on a 3-day state visit, the first by an Indian Head of State.
