Address of Ambassador for 72nd Republic Day Celebration at the Embassy

Distinguished members of the Indian community in Oman;

I warmly welcome all of you, who have joined us virtually to celebrate 72nd Republic Day of India. I extend warm greeting and best wishes to all of you and your family members on this auspicious occasion.

2. The year 2020 was a difficult year for all of us, as the COVID19 pandemic impacted the whole world. The pandemic is still very much here and in line with COVID19 protocols, we are hosting today’s event virtually. I would once again request all of you to continue taking all the precautions. I am sure the year 2021 will bring good health, happiness and prosperity to all of us.

3. On behalf of the Government and people of India, I extend warm greetings and best wishes to His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik and the Government and People of Oman for continued peace and progress of Oman. I would also like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik and the Government of Oman for taking good care of the Indian community during the pandemic. India and Oman have worked very closely to address the various challenges - economic as well as health care emanating from the pandemic and we remain committed to continuing this cooperation.

4. I would also like to thank the members of the Indian community – the social workers, health professionals, teachers, Indian Social Club and individuals - who have each played a role in addressing the challenges emanating from the pandemic and supporting the community.

5. Friends, India’s fight against COVID has been characterized by care and compassion. India has not only been successful in managing COVID19 at home, it has also shouldered its global responsibilities and extended support to our friends and partners and emerged as the “Pharmacy of the World”. As India rolls out the largest vaccine drive in the world, which has no parallel in the history of mankind, we remain committed to helping other countries also, under our guiding philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the entire world is one family. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured that India’s vaccine production capacity will serve the interest of the whole humanity.

6. The Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abiyan (Self Reliant India), which was announced by PM Modi in the wake of COVID19 pandemic has now evolved into a major program for enhancing national capacities of India. India’s diaspora across the world including in Oman will be an important partner in the national endeavor towards self reliance.

7. As we look ahead to post-COVID19 era, there are immense opportunities for the expansion of India-Oman strategic partnership. India can be a strong and resilient partner for Oman in all priority areas identified under Vision 2040. There are strong complementarities between both our countries in several areas. We look forward to working closely with Government of Oman and hope that India-Oman bilateral cooperation will reach new heights in coming years.

8. Let me now read excerpts from the address of the President to the Nation.

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With these words, I once again wish you and your families a very Happy Republic Day and best wishes for a bright future. Thank you, Jai Hind!