We cherish unique role of Armenian presence in enriching Indian society, says Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh

YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 11, ARMENPRESS. India and Armenia stand for peace, prosperity, and good for all, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh said at the India in Armenia, and Armenia in India conference in Yerevan. 

The event was held at the Cafesjian Center for the Arts in Cascade. 

Below is the text of remarks delivered by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. 

“As a well-wisher and a strong proponent of India-Armenia ties, I am honored to join all of you at this special event being held at a very special venue, dedicated to the preservation of the rich heritage of Armenian art and culture. 

“The theme of this exhibition, India in Armenia, and Armenia in India, highlights the bonds that have transcended geographical boundaries and kept the two countries close despite the physical distance between them.

“India is not only familiar with Armenian presence but also cherishes the unique role played by it in enriching Indian society. The first Armenian people to settle in India were merchants and traders who built vibrant communities in coastal parts of the country. Over the years this interaction witnessed manifold growth and development to reach its current robust state.

“One prime example of the enduring Armenian presence in India is the Armenian Church in Kolkata which was first built in 1688. Even today, the Armenian presence in Kolkata and various other places continues to flourish and develop. 

“It is really heartening to see that an entire panel in the exhibition is dedicated to these glorious chapter of our shared heritage.

“This exhibition demonstrates the strong historical foundation on which our current partnership rests and the potential that exists for the future. I believe that the similarity between India and Armenia regarding openness to ideas, cultures and influences from abroad is natural and driven by the way we have interacted with the world. 

“We have both been practitioners of globalization and amity between cultures and nations through much of recorded history. This shared world-view continues to guide us even today.

“Indians and Armenians have taken their identities across the world, across geographies, political, and cultural divides, and looked to create opportunities, growth, cohesiveness, and oneness. Our diasporas are a testament to this.

“India and Armenia stand for peace, prosperity, and good for all. Our vision of ‘tech for good’ is reflective of the same. The successes of our collaborative efforts reflect these principles including in the domain of IT and technology. Indian and Armenian minds have played a critical role in building digital highways that have made the world a 'global village' and a better place than ever before.

“We do not pursue wars. We espouse peace. We incubate talent. We promote education. The Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (Sanskrit for ‘the world is one family’) aligns with the popular Armenian saying of Tsaut Tanem (roughly translated in English to ‘let me take away your pain’).

“These values and outlooks assume greater significance in a world that is witnessing greater challenges to peace and stability. It is in the interest of both our countries to harness our bilateral partnership for enhancing global stability. We have some unique strengths to do so. During my current visit to Yerevan, I had the pleasure of attending the inaugural Yerevan Dialogue yesterday, where I was able to witness robust discussions on a wide variety of topics including the most pressing challenges that we face today. I was encouraged by the closeness of our view and perspectives on most matters of salience. Standing here, at the Cafesjian Centre for the Arts, reinforces my view that India’s efforts towards a stronger partnership will be closely matched by Armenia. 

“This exhibition today is a bridge to remind us once again that both our countries see culture as a pillar of development, a force multiplier for friendly relations, and for greater global good.

“Armenia in India, and India in Armenia, can do a lot to take our bilateral engagements forward, but also, with it, move global discourse towards a better, more positive, and constructive path.”