Embassy of India

Caracas, Venezuela

SPEECH BY SHRI ABHISHEK SINGH, AMBASSADOR OF INDIA TO VENEZUELA AT THE INAUGURATION OF THE STATUE OF MAHATMA GANDHI AT UNIVERSIDAD METROPOLITANA.

 

His Excellency Ruben Dario Molino, Vice Minister for Asia, Middle East and Oceania

Rector Benjamin Scharifker,

Veronica Rodriguez De Guruceaga, President Mahatama Gandhi Venezuela,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

            Today is a historic day.  For one, it is the grand finale of the 150^th birth anniversary celebration of Mahatma Gandhi.  There could not have been a more befitting manner to celebrate this occasion than the inauguration of Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at the Universidad Metropolitana in Caracas.  This is the first statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Venezuela.  Indeed, this occasion at the University is a historic one.

2.        I would like to thank Mahatma Gandhi Venezuela and its dynamic President Veronica Rodriguez Guruceaga for her untiring efforts.  I would also like to thank the management of the Universidad Metropolitana for their support in providing a prominent space in the Campus of the Universidad for this priceless statue.  I would also like to thank Hon’ble Vice Foreign Minister Ruben Dario Molina who has graced this occasion despite his other commitments.

3.        Mahatma Gandhi has a special place in the hearts of all Indians and millions across the world.  In his life time, he achieved great feats by following the principle of non-violence and satyagraha.  There was a great message of peace for every one and that message of non-violence is more relevant today than any other time.

4.        India has been the finest example of adhering to Mahatma Gandhi philosophy of truth and non-violence. We have always chosen the path of dialogue and consultation.  We have consciously chosen the path of non violence and if there are differences, we believe that they need to be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.    

5.        I am very proud of the fact that India is the world’s largest democracy and also a great upholder of democratic traditions.  Gandhiji’s philosophy has strengthened our democratic ethos.

6.        This statue of Mahatma Gandhi will be a great reminder of his philosophy.  I am sure the people of Venezuela would appreciate the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi and the relevance of his philosophy every time they pass by this statue.  It will also be a symbol of friendship between the people of Venezuela and India.

7.        I would once again like to thank all the participants for their presence here.

8.        Long live India-Venezuela friendship.

9.        Long live the great legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. 

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