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Speech of Ambassador of India Mr. Abhishek Singh on the occasion of 74th anniversary of IFS Day

Posted on: October 10, 2020 | Back | Print

Speech of Ambassador of India Mr. Abhishek Singh on the occasion of 74th anniversary of IFS Day

 

Ambassador Ravi Bangar, former Ambassador of India to Colombia and Ecuador and High Commissioner of India to Cyprus,

Colleagues from Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Friends,

Ladies and Gentlemen

 

        I am truly privileged to be with all of you for the celebration of 74th anniversary of the founding of Indian Foreign Service also known as IFS.  9th October is celebrated as the Indian Foreign Service Day all over the world in various Indian Embassies and High Commissions.  This is the day when we celebrate the Service as well as all the members of the Service spread across the world who have contributed immensely for promoting India’s interest and building bridges of friendship with countries far and wide.

2.     Some people have described diplomacy as an art of the impossible and have also said that diplomacy is sometimes the last option between war and peace.  The significance of the role of a diplomat in all the countries is well known and there is hardly any area of work that is untouched by practicing diplomats.

3.     The Indian Foreign Service has produced countless stalwarts who have contributed in promoting international peace and cooperation. Today is the day when we remember the members of the Indian Foreign Service who have contributed to Indian diplomacy sometimes in very trying conditions. We also remember the family members of the IFS officers who have equally contributed in larger cause of national interest despite frequent dislocation to new countries. 

4.     I have personally had the privilege to serve in the IFS for the past 17 years and Caracas happens to be my 5th foreign assignment.  All my assignments are special to me and have provided a platform to contribute towards larger foreign policy objectives of my country.  What sets apart IFS is the impeccable professionalism of Indian diplomats who are also highly regarded by their counterparts from various countries.

5.     The current challenge of COVID-19 pandemic has led to an absolutely unexpected disruption in conduct of foreign policy.  Indian diplomats across the world have risen to the occasion and contributed immensely in the global fight against COVID-19.  While following COVID-19 protocol, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and all the Embassies and Missions have worked almost continuously to keep the momentum of the diplomatic engagements going.

6.     I am truly thrilled that today some of our colleagues from various walks of life in Venezuela as well as former Ambassador to Colombia Mr. Ravi Bangar who has also served three years in Caracas are present with us to share their thoughts on this momentous day.

7.     I am in my third month of posting as Ambassador in Caracas and I have received great warmth from the people and the Government of Venezuela.  We are continuously working to broaden the areas of cooperation including collaboration in the joint fight against COVID-19.

8.     Without any further ado, let me start the proceeding of the day by inviting colleagues to say a few words on the 74th Indian Foreign Service Day and also their thoughts on India-Venezuela friendship. 

9.     Thank you.

 

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