Speech of Ambassador
of India Mr. Abhishek Singh on the occasion of 74th anniversary of
IFS Day
Ambassador Ravi
Bangar, former Ambassador of India to Colombia and Ecuador and High
Commissioner of India to Cyprus,
Colleagues from
Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Friends,
Ladies and Gentlemen
I am truly privileged to be with all of
you for the celebration of 74th anniversary of the founding of
Indian Foreign Service also known as IFS.
9th October is celebrated as the Indian Foreign Service Day
all over the world in various Indian Embassies and High Commissions. This is the day when we celebrate the Service
as well as all the members of the Service spread across the world who have
contributed immensely for promoting India’s interest and building bridges of
friendship with countries far and wide.
2. Some people have described diplomacy as an art
of the impossible and have also said that diplomacy is sometimes the last option
between war and peace. The significance
of the role of a diplomat in all the countries is well known and there is
hardly any area of work that is untouched by practicing diplomats.
3. The Indian Foreign Service has produced
countless stalwarts who have contributed in promoting international peace and cooperation.
Today is the day when we remember the members of the Indian Foreign Service who
have contributed to Indian diplomacy sometimes in very trying conditions. We also
remember the family members of the IFS officers who have equally contributed in
larger cause of national interest despite frequent dislocation to new
countries.
4. I have personally had the privilege to
serve in the IFS for the past 17 years and Caracas happens to be my 5th
foreign assignment. All my assignments are
special to me and have provided a platform to contribute towards larger foreign
policy objectives of my country. What
sets apart IFS is the impeccable professionalism of Indian diplomats who are
also highly regarded by their counterparts from various countries.
5. The current challenge of COVID-19 pandemic has
led to an absolutely unexpected disruption in conduct of foreign policy. Indian diplomats across the world have risen
to the occasion and contributed immensely in the global fight against
COVID-19. While following COVID-19
protocol, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and all the
Embassies and Missions have worked almost continuously to keep the momentum of
the diplomatic engagements going.
6. I am truly thrilled that today some of our
colleagues from various walks of life in Venezuela as well as former Ambassador
to Colombia Mr. Ravi Bangar who has also served three
years in Caracas are present with us to share their thoughts on this momentous day.
7. I am in my third month of posting as
Ambassador in Caracas and I have received great warmth from the people and the
Government of Venezuela. We are continuously
working to broaden the areas of cooperation including collaboration in the
joint fight against COVID-19.
8. Without any further ado, let me start the
proceeding of the day by inviting colleagues to say a few words on the 74th
Indian Foreign Service Day and also their thoughts on India-Venezuela
friendship.
9. Thank you.
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