Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday hailed the contribution of the Indian diaspora in Romania, saying they are playing a key role in promoting Indian values in the country.
Addressing a group of the Indian community here, Vice President Naidu said, "Each one of you has become a part of Romania's unique fabric and its progress. There is a strong interest in Romania about Indian culture. All of you are playing important role in promoting Indian values."
The Vice President added that the Indian diaspora is acting as a bridge between the two countries to facilitate people-to-people ties.
He stated, "You have become a bridge between 2 countries and our people. The way of life, tradition, food, Ayurveda and yoga are playing a valuable contribution to our people-to-people ties between India and Romania."
Stressing on the bilateral relations, Vice President Naidu said that the ties have been warm, cordial and multi-faceted and that the common values of democracy, rule of law, freedom and economic complementarities make the two countries as natural partners.
Underlining the importance of his visit to the European country, the Vice President said, "This visit is a milestone due to the 70 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Romania and it also overlaps the centenary year of Romania, which is being celebrated with fervour."
Vice President Naidu further informed the community of the reforms taken by the Indian government in the last four years to give a new purpose and clarity of vision for inclusive development and setting new standards of governance in the country.
He elucidated, "We are working towards becoming a five trillion dollar economy by 2025. India has been ranked third in World Economic Forum list of most trusted governments. India has climbed 42 places in ease of doing business rankings last year. The digitalisation of economy and taxation reforms like Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is a transformational revolutionary taxation system we have adopted. There were some hiccups initially, but GST is now doing wonders. Government's revenue is increasing and it is being used for spending on development and welfare of the people."
Vice President Naidu underscored that the establishment of business companies by India and Romania and their investment and employment opportunities are contributing to socio-economic progress between the two nations.
Delving into the key measures taken by the government to improve the diaspora outreach, the Vice President said, "We have taken steps to enhance your role in connecting and developing your ties with us. We have taken key measures to eliminate barriers of your connect with India so that our government are connected to you at all times. The world's engagements with India is at a new level. The entire world is keen on India's growth story and happenings in the country. We are a diverse country and people, irrespective of caste or religion are living together harmoniously."
He added that the Indian community are not only cultural ambassadors but also playing a key role in influencing the policies of the government.
Vice President Naidu pledged to the diaspora to follow the rules and regulations of one's country, but not to forget the cultural ethos. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated several programmes such as Clean India, Skill India, Start-up India, demonetisation and GST to change the mindset of the people.
Vice President Naidu went on to say that if the current growth rate is maintained, then a New India, that is free from hunger, corruption, fear and poverty would be realised in the next five to ten years.
After the address, Vice President Naidu then emplaned for India after completing a week-long visit to Serbia, Malta and Romania, in an effort to strengthen bilateral cooperation with these countries. He is scheduled to reach New Delhi on Friday morning.
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