Jeddah: The Consulate General of India, Jeddah celebrated the 71st Republic Day of India at its premises with the hoisting of India’s national flag by Consul General Noor Rahman Sheikh which was followed by the singing of the National Anthem. The Consul General read out the Presidential address to a 400 strong Indian community and friends of India present at the event. The event also saw cultural programs and rendition of patriotic songs by students of International Indian School, Jeddah.
National Day Reception
The evening had a formal National Day Reception hosted by the Consulate General of India, Jeddah at Park Hyatt which had in attendance Ambassador Hani Kashif, Director, Protocol Department, Ministry of Foreign affairs as chief guest, other diplomats, friends of India and members of the Indian community. Consul General in his address in Arabic & English, to the August gathering mentioned about the excellent bilateral relationship between India & Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as well as the works handled by the Consulate to look after the welfare of the 1 million-strong Indian community residing in the Western Region of the Kingdom, initiatives taken to enhance bilateral commercial ties and facilitation of Haj operations in which 200,000 Indian nationals performed Haj.
Classical dances
A fusion of Kerala classical dances was a hallmark of the event. Information on Make in India, the flagship program of the Government of India was also displayed at the program. The event ended with a sumptuous dinner overlooking King Fahd’s Fountain.