RIYADH/JEDDAH/DAMMAM, 16 August 2006 — Indian expatriates across Saudi Arabia and the rest of the Gulf celebrated their country’s 60th Independence Day yesterday.
In Riyadh, India’s Ambassador M.O.H. Farook hoisted the national flag at the embassy premises. Rajeev Shahare, deputy chief of the mission, read out President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s message which stressed the need to promote science and technology and higher education, and tackle issues concerning energy and security.
The president, among other things, focused in his message themed “National awakening” on various challenges facing the country including terrorism and violence and said, “these dynamic challenges call for special measures to ensure a comprehensive, integrated system of security that has four major components — territorial security, internal security, energy security and economic security.”
Referring to the floods caused by rain in some parts and drought in some other parts, the president reiterated the need for the interlinking of the country’s rivers for an effective utilization of surplus water in a balanced manner across all regions and states.
Speaking to reporters, the ambassador called on the NRIs (non-resident Indians) in the Kingdom to work hard, be sincere and set a good example in moral behavior. A reception for the members of the community was held later in the evening at the International Indian School-Riyadh (Girls’ Section) auditorium.
In Jeddah, Consul General Ausaf Sayeed raised the flag and read the president’s message at the consulate.
The celebration this time was without the traditional hoisting of the flag at the IIS-Jeddah.
In Dammam, the community celebrated the event at the IIS-Dammam. The parents felt that neither the hot humid conditions not the “apathy from the diplomatic community” could dampen the enthusiasm of the Indian Diaspora as they gathered to celebrate the day. “The Indian Embassy should involve itself on such occasions,” an expat said echoing the feelings of the community. “The embassy’s involvement helps in making such occasions more colorful,” he added.
School Principal E.K. Mohammad Shafe and its managing committee Chairman Dr. Mumtaz unfurled the flag. The principal read the president’s message. Schoolchildren organized a cultural show including a dance performance and some thought-provoking speeches.
UAE Indian Ambassador C.M. Bhandari unfurled the tricolor at the Indian Embassy premises in Abu Dhabi to the rendering of the national Anthem by the students of Abu Dhabi Indian High School and read the president’s message.
In Dubai, hundreds of Indians gathered at the Indian High School where Consul General Yash K. Sinha hoisted the tricolor. A program of patriotic songs followed. Similar programs were organized at various Indian community centers and schools in Sharjah, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain.
