BJP TODAY

May 16--31, 2003 - Vol. 12, No. 10

Dr. Bhisma K. Agnihotri visits Portugal

Dr. Bhishma K. Agnihotri, Ambassador-at-Large for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) paid an official visit to Portugal for two days from 24-04-03 to 25-04-03. During the visit, he met leaders/representatives of various sects of the Indian community residing in Portugal. These included representatives of (Sikh) Gurdwara Committees, Social Workers, leaders of the Hindu community, the Ismailis, the Sunni Muslims and the Goan community. At these meetings, Dr. Bhishma K. Agnihotri, stressed the importance of Indians from all walks of life living together as 'a global family'.

Dr. Agnihotri took note of the grievances expressed by the Sikh community which included inordinate delays in receipt of passport clearances from local passport offices in India as also the verification reports/authentication reports in respect of birth and marriage certificates from the concerned District authorities in Punjab. He was also apprised of the lack of institutional support for the repatriation of the mortal remains of Indians who die in harness. Representatives of the Guru Ravidas Committee also highlighted the need for opening of a branch of an Indian bank in Portugal and the introduction of direct flights between Lisbon and New Delhi.

In his response, Dr. Agnihotri assured them that he would take up these matters with the authorities concerned in India.

Mr. Kantilal Jamnadas, President of the Hindu community, stressed the need for improving the investment climate in India with particular reference to labour laws. Dr. Agnihotri informed Mr. Kantilals Jamnadas of the changes made in the recent past and the ongoing second generation economic reforms. He also explained the constraints in making such changes at a rapid pace in a democratic set up, as contrasted to the changes made in China.

The Ambassador-at-large expressed his admiration of the architectural excellence of the Ismaili Centre and said he was overwhelmed by the breadth and depth of the social welfare activities being undertaken by the Aga Khan Foundation. While reiterating his emphasis on "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam", he underlined the importance of explaining to people of the West, Islam in its right perspective, in order to allay distortions brought about the events of 11th September.

Dr. Abdool Vakil, President of the Sunni Community briefed Dr. Agnihotri on his bank (Banco Effisa)'s involvement in a major hydro-electric project in the state of Madhya Pradesh.

During his visit to the Casa De Goa in Lisbon, the Goan community made a presentation of their objectives and future plans. They also enquired about the status of dual nationality. Dr. Agnihotri informed that a Bill for the purpose was likely to be introduced in Parliament in its current session.