I am happy to note that Arab News is bringing out a special supplement on Kerala on Nov. 11, 2006. Considering that the state of Kerala is celebrating 50 years of its statehood this month, it is befitting that the special edition is being brought out at this time. Keralites constitute over 40 percent of the estimated 1.5 million Indian expatriate community in the Kingdom. They have made a significant contribution toward enhancing the growing bilateral ties between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They have, like other Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia, shown exceptional characteristic of being able to integrate fully into Saudi life, while continuing to maintain close cultural and economic ties with their home state. I would like to use this opportunity to pay tribute to this community and to recognize their valuable contributions.
The state of Kerala has made considerable progress in the last fifty years since its formation. It has consistently earned a high rank in respect of several growth parameters among the various states in India. A number of studies have indicated that its level of social development is comparable to that of the industrialized nations of the world. Remittances from Keralites working abroad, particularly in Saudi Arabia, have gone a long way in sustaining economic and social development of the state.
I am sure that Keralites living in Saudi Arabia will continue to have a great role in strengthening the historical and warm relationship between India and Saudi Arabia as well as in the further progress and development of their motherland.
On this occasion, I would like to extend my best wishes to all Keralites in Saudi Arabia. I also congratulate Arab News on bringing out this special supplement.
M.O.H. Farook
Indian Ambassador
