By IANS
Dubai : Indians living in the Gulf should further strengthen the India-Gulf relationship and extend support “to tide over the turbulent times facing the region”, said Talmiz Ahmed, India’s ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
“Relationships have to be refreshed, made contemporary on the basis of new reasons and rationale,” Ahmed told the Indian community here Monday.
Ahmed, who took over as ambassador recently, said he would be committed to the endeavour of carrying forward the Indo-Gulf partnership and pursuing the path of peace and prosperity, the Khaleej Times reported.
“The relationship between Indians and the region dates back to 5,000 years and has seen several challenges and hurdles. But, despite the challenges, the Indian community has stayed on and should continue to do so in the future, extending support to tide over the turbulent times facing the region currently,” Ahmed said.
“We have to ensure that India is seen as a substantial partner in the region, like it is in the other countries around the globe,” he affirmed.
Ahmad, a senior diplomat, was the director-general of the Indian Council of World Affairs before his present assignment.
Ahmad is an old Gulf hand and had earlier served as India’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Oman. He has also written a perceptive book on post-9/11 Middle East.
The appointment of a senior diplomat like Ahmad as India’s envoy to UAE is part of New Delhi’s broader plan of upgrading its ties to a new level.
The UAE is home to over 1.4 million Indians.