Nicosia: President Ram Nath Kovind urged the Indian diaspora in Cyprus to contribute to the nation-building process as the new India provides ample opportunities to everyone. Addressing the Indian Community in Nicosia, the Capital city of Cyprus, he said that the new India is confident and growing fast. It has become the fastest growing major economy in the world.

Mr Kovind spoke about the programmes like Make in India, Digital India, Start-Up India and Ujjwala Yojana which are improving the lives of common people and ushering in a new India.

He said that in the last few years, the major change has taken place in the way government relates to the NRIs across the world which is reflected in stronger connect at individual and institutional levels with the Indian diaspora.

Speaking about the historical ties between India and Cyprus, Mr Kovind said that India and Cyprus are both ancient civilizations and they share qualities like cultural diversity. He said Indian leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Ravindra Nath Tagore are greatly respected in Cyprus. Mr Kovind said the two countries are natural friends.

The first day of President Ram Nath Kovind’s visit to Cyprus was marked by the enthusiastic reception given by the Indian community at Nicosia. On the second day of the visit, Mr Kovind will meet President Nicos Nicos Anastasiades of Cyprus followed by delegation level talks and signing of bilateral agreements between the two countries.

President Kovind will pay floral tributes on the bust of Mahatma Gandhi. Later in the day he will also address an extraordinary session of the house of representatives of Cyprus.