India to open embassy in Timor-Leste; President Murmu lauds contribution of diaspora
Droupadi Murmu on Saturday lauded the «very small but active» Indian community in Timor-Leste as a 'living bridge' for its role in improving bilateral relations and announced that India will soon open its embassy here. President Murmu, who arrived earlier in the day, on the first-ever presidential visit from India to Timor-Leste, was speaking at an interaction event with the Indian diaspora in this archipelagic Southeast Asian nation.
Before this event, Murmu received the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, the country's highest honour from her counterpart Jose Ramos-Horta for her achievements in public service and dedication to education, social welfare and women empowerment.
«The Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste bestowed upon me is a symbol of manifestation of the warmth and special friendship between the two countries,» she said at the outset as she thanked President Ramos-Horta and the country for hosting her and the Indian delegation.
Underscoring the «unsurpassed importance of the Indian origin/Indian diaspora,» the President said: «The achievements of the Indian diaspora has been a matter of pride for India.»
«We consider you as our living bridge. Each one of you is an ambassador of our great country. You represent India wherever you go. You have brought laurels to whichever field you have chosen with your discipline and sincerity,» the President said and added: «You have merged with the local host country very well.»
«Timore-Leste has a very small Indian community but it has an active role
