Author: PTI
Publication: Free Press Journal
Date: May 30, 2003
Even 158 years after their arrival
in Trinidad and Tobago, Indians have "preserved and cherished" their distinct
cultural traditions and emotional bonds with the country of origin, Indian
High Commissioner Virendra Gupta said on Thursday, reports PTI.
"It is a great tribute to the courage
and adaptability of Indian indentured labourers who came to this country,
that despite extremely difficult living conditions, they succeeded in moulding
themselves into a responsible community making significant contribution
for the socio-economic development and prosperity of this country," Singh
said in a message marking the Indian arrival Day.
"On this historic day, 158 years
ago, a group of Indentured Indian labourers landed on this beautiful Caribbean
island, thus marking the beginning of an enduring relationship between
Indian and Trinidad and Tobago, a relationship that has been characterised
by cordiality and mutual understanding as well as increasing level of co-operation
in trade and high technology areas." He added.
Singh said the High commission had
organised a series of events over a month in an attempt to showcase, "perhaps
the for the first time in a comprehensive manner," various facets of the
rich and vibrant Indian culture.
These include a two-day seminar
on the Indian Diaspora from June 2 under the theme "From Indentured to
Entrepreneurship: East Indians and socio-economic transformation in Caribbean",
at the University of West Indies.
