President Kovind Addresses Indian Community in Philippines

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : The President of India Ram Nath Kovind attended the Indian Community Reception hosted by aideep Mazumdar, Ambassador of India to the Philippines, at Manila on October 20, 2019.

Addressing the gathering, the President said that Indian community in Philippines has been a strong bond of friendship between the two countries for decades.  The size of the diaspora has grown remarkably over the last few years.  All of them are contributing to the economy and society of Philippines and to the image of India and Indians in Philippines.

The President said that in our efforts to build a new India, we need Indian Diaspora’s support and helping hand. He called upon them to avail of the opportunities that India today offers for innovation, investment, research and education. He said that India’s flagship initiatives such as Make in India, Digital India, Skill India, Ganga Rejuvenation Project, Swachh Bharat Mission, Smart Cities, and Jal Jeevan Mission seek their partnership, according to a PIB release.

The President said that India’s bilateral economic engagement in terms of investment and presence of Indian companies in Philippines is on the upswing. India-Philippines trade has risen to nearly US$ 2.5 billion. However, for our two fast-growing economies, the quantum of bilateral trade is still modest. There is much potential which needs to be tapped. He expressed confidence that with Indian community’s initiatives and enterprise; we can do much more to bring prosperity to the two countries.

Earlier in the day, the President unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Miriam College, Quezon City, in the presence of the Mayor of the City and other dignitaries.  Speaking on the occasion, the President said that this bust of Mahatma Gandhi is a gift from the people of India to people of Philippines. But the Mahatma belongs to all people, all cultures and all societies. May he continue to guide us in our shared journey of peace, harmony and sustainable development for all, he added.

On October 21, 2019), the President will leave for Japan ,the final leg of his state visit to two nations.