Ambassador of India to Algeria Dr. Swati Kulkarni ji,
our Indian brothers and sisters in Algeria,
Namaskar! Good evening to all of you!
It gives me great pleasure to be present amidst you in the beautiful and historic city of Algiers.
It is an honour for me that the first State Visit from India to Algeria is being concluded by me. This is a historic day in India-Algeria relations. I am accompanied by our Minister of State, Shri Sukanta Majumdar, and Members of Parliament, Shri Atul Garg and Shri Mukesh Kumar Dalal.
I am grateful to President Tebbonn and the people of Algeria for the warm welcome and hospitality. I will have the opportunity to meet President Tebbonn tomorrow during which I will discuss further expanding bilateral relations between India and Algeria for the benefit of all of you.
Brothers and sisters,
I would like to begin by recalling the cordial relations between India and Algeria. India supported the liberation movement of Algeria against colonialism from the very beginning. Our leaders have had close personal relations with the leaders of Algeria. The National Liberation Front, one of the key members of Algeria's liberation struggle, had its offices in India during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
When Algeria became independent in 1962, India was there to support Algeria, and we immediately established diplomatic relations. Since then, diplomatic relations have grown manifold. In this context, my visit has special significance.
Despite geographical distances, we have always had a close bond of friendship. A living example of these long-standing ties is the affection of the people of Algeria towards India. A road has been named after Mahatma Gandhi in Oran, and one road each in Algiers has been named after Jawaharlal Nehru. Indian cinema and TV soap operas are popular here and are watched in Arabic. Elderly Algerians still remember the Indian doctors and teachers who lived in Algiers during the seventies and eighties. This is what I have been told. I am happy to know that Algerian brides also wear Indian sarees as their attire during the three-day long wedding ceremony!
I understand that there are about 4000 Indian nationals in Algeria, working in various projects and establishments located across the country. Many of our citizens are technically skilled, working on projects located in remote areas in difficult conditions. I am aware that many Indian companies, both in the public and private sectors, are operating in Algeria. I have been told that IRCON has completed the railway doubling projects near Oran to a large extent. During my visit, I will visit the Siddi Abdullah Science and Technology University built by Shapporji Pallonji. The transformer plant manufactured by Vijay Electricals is expected to be commissioned shortly. I am told that Mahindra & Mahindra is expecting to restart their tractor project soon. These are just a few of the many projects being undertaken by the Indian community in Algeria. Larsen & Toubro, RITES Ltd. Companies like this, which are engaged in infrastructure development in many African countries, Indian people are ready for partnership with Algeria in the future.
The hardworking Indian community in Algeria in various fields are, in a way, true ambassadors of India. Such are our ambassadors, but you are also doing the work of an ambassador. Each one of you carries within yourselves the value and culture of our ancient land. Whenever you meet an Algerian, you introduce him to the spirit of India. Your culture, your movements, your face, your spirit are full of Indianness.
Friends,
General Elections have been held in our country this year. Around 97 crore voters participated in it, which was a historic record and made it the largest electoral exercise ever. It is also a spectacular success of democracy in our country.
Today, India is playing an important role in global growth. With an annual average growth of consistently 8%, India is one of the fastest-growing major economies. There has been a significant reduction in the number of people living below the poverty line. It is a matter of pride that our country has become the fifth largest economy in the world and is poised to be among the top three economies soon. As India moves forward on its Amrit Kaal journey, it will continue to move forward with its close allies like Algeria in the spirit of South-South Cooperation.
Friends,
The Government of India and the Indian civil society have always valued and appreciated the contribution of the Indian community in enhancing India's reputation and respect abroad. The Indian community in Algeria plays the role of a bridge to India's national security and economic interests and to further soft power. With the collective efforts of 140 crore Indians, we have embarked on a new journey of hopes and aspirations. As India embarks on the path of rapid development, the goodwill and support of our Indian community in Algeria and abroad is growing even faster.
Friends,
Government of India and the Indian society have always valued and appreciated the contribution of the Indian community in enhancing India's position, prestige, and standing abroad. The Indian community in Algeria is a bridge taking forward India's interests and soft power. With the collective efforts of 1.4 billion Indians, we embark on a new journey of hopes and aspirations. While India is moving ahead on the path of development at a rapid pace, the goodwill and support of our Indian community in Algeria and abroad cannot be overemphasized.
I do hope that you will continue with your good work and make us proud of your accomplishments for the betterment of India-Algeria relations. I wish you success and prosperity in the years ahead in all your endeavours.
I am confident that India's transformative growth and Algeria's natural potential will take our relations to a new level.
Jai Hind!
Algiers,
October 13, 2024
