RIYADH/JEDDAH, 16 August 2003 — Indian expatriates in the Kingdom celebrated the 57th Independence Day with great fervor and patriotism yesterday.
In Riyadh, Ambassador Kamaluddin Ahmed hoisted the national flag at a large gathering of expatriates and their families st the embassy premises in the Diplomatic Quarter. He read out the president’s message before the assembled gathering.
Speaking to newsmen after the event, the ambassador said he would pay attention to the community’s problems besides promoting Indian-Saudi relations.
In the evening, the ambassador hosted a reception for the community at the International Indian School (Girls” Section). Other Indian schools in the capital also marked the occasion by organizing flag hositing ceremonies at their premises.
In Jeddah, Consul General Syed Akbaruddin hoisted the national flag and read out the president’s message at the consulate premises and the International Indian School (Boys’ Section).
A colorful cultural program depicting different aspects of India’s cultural heritage was held in the evening at the boys’ school.