Geneva, Oct 2 (ANI): Stating that relations between two countries are built and nurtured by people on both sides, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Sunday said that India is proud of its people who went abroad and earned the respect of others by the dint of their hard work and enterprise.
Addressing a reception hosted by the Indian Ambassador to Switzerland, Chitra Narayanan, in Geneva, President Patil said: "I am aware that here, in Switzerland too, Indians have made significant contributions to the development of this country and are held in high regard by the people of Switzerland. The goodwill generated by them contributes profoundly to the relationship between India and Switzerland."
"We have a commitment to the fundamental principles of democracy and federalism. Deeply ingrained in our people is the mutual respect for differences and diversity within our respective nations. Shared values of rule of law and respect for human dignity bind our two nations and peoples together," she added.
President Patil also highlighted how India and Switzerland share scientific traditions.
"India, the home of mathematics, geometry and invention of the Zero has an ancient scientific culture, while Switzerland is a leader in innovation, scientific and technological excellence and creativity. Yesterday, I visited CERN and was most impressed with the research work being done there and with the contributions that Indian scientists were making to the various activities in CERN," she said.
She further said that the two countries are now exploring the establishment of a privileged partnership.
"This is my first visit to Switzerland and its purpose is to maintain the momentum of political exchanges which underpin our bilateral relations, and give them fresh substance. All of you can also contribute to this goal and help enhance bilateral ties," she added.
Around 250 members of the Indian community were present at the function.
President Patil also wished the members of the Indian community a very happy Dussehra.
"I wish you, your families, and all our Swiss friends present here success, happiness and prosperity. The festive season in India has begun and I wish all of you a very happy Dussehra," she said.
President Patil arrived in Switzerland on September 30 for a five-day state visit to enhance bilateral relations. She will stay in Switzerland till October 4 and then travel to Austria for a state visit from October 4 to 7.
The members of the delegation accompanying the President include Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Rajeev Shukla and Members of Parliament Vijay Jawaharlal Darda, Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav, and Dr. Chinta Mohan.
Senior officials including the Secretary to President Dr. Christy Fernandez and Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs, are also a part of the delegation, besides a number of business leaders and members of the media. By Sanjay Mohan (ANI)
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