Foundation stone laid for Indian chancery building

HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Wednesday jointly unveiled the foundation stone for the new Indian embassy chancery building located in the Diplomatic Enclave, West Bay. HE ambassador Ibrahim Fakhro, director of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a number of Qatari officials, Indian ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal and several Indian community members were present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, Dr Jaishankar said it was great to be a part of the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Indian embassy’s chancery complex. “Qatar is second home to more than 750,000 Indians and a number of them who have been in Qatar for many years – some of them for about even 50 years -- are here taking part in the function today.”Thanking the Qatari leadership for facilitating the allotment of the land for the new premises, Dr Jaishankar said the participation of HE Sheikh Mohamed in the foundation stone-laying ceremony was a matter of great pride for all Indians in Qatar. “It also represents the growing strength and mutual trust in India-Qatar co-operation. The local Indian community will receive confidence from Qatar government’s affection and commitment to their welfare. I take this opportunity to convey my deepest gratitude to His Highness the Amir and His Highness the Father Amir for their continued support to the thriving Indian community in Qatar,” noted Dr Jaishankar. He also said the India-Qatar diplomatic relations are completing 50 years in 2023. “As India’s relation with Qatar grows from strength to strength, the embassy’s role in nurturing it will expand equally. I am pleased to see a flourishing Indian community in Qatar. Your presence here is a microcosm of India’s diversity and culture. I am impressed by the vibrancy and achievements of the community. I am proud to say that Indian community in Qatar has raised the prestige and reputation of India in this country through their tireless efforts,” he explained.“Your work ethics as well as law-abiding nature has set up high benchmarks. You are also continuing your historical legacy in modern times and providing strength to our bilateral relations. It is my pleasure to dedicate the foundation stone-laying ceremony to the vibrant and hardworking Indian community here in Qatar,” the minister said.He highlighted the efforts of the medical fraternity from the community during Covid-19. “The embassy represents the nation and it is your link with the Government of India. Through our embassies, the government is taking steps to deliver services promptly and more efficiently. We strive to work for the welfare of everyone. I am confident that the new embassy premises in its final form will reflect the new India and serve the community to the fullest,” he added.Dr Jaishankar welcomed the Indian community's enthusiastic participation in the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to mark India’s 75 years of Independence. He also highlighted the Indian government’s measures implemented for the welfare of the Indian community.