- Govt joins Indian community to commemorate 75 years of independence
- Appreciates programs in line with the 2 countries’ diplomatic and bilateral relations
Mbabane – His Majesty King Mswati III has acknowledged the sacrifices of India’s forefathers and liberation heroes and heroines made 75 years ago to attain that country’s independence.
Delivering his speech through Prince Mguciso during the Republic of India’s Independence Day commemoration at the United Nations (UN) Offices on August 15, 2022, the king said as the Asian country celebrated their Independence Day, they (Eswatini) took the time and looked back at the 75 years of growth and development India has made.
The King highlighted, “It is clear that as a nation you have invested in ensuring that government and the people of India move from one level to another with each and every year. We cannot forget the sacrifices that your forefathers and liberation heroes and heroines have done for the people of your great nation. Today you have made your presence felt in all sectors of development including the health, education, energy and technology to mention but a few.”
He further indicated that they wished to encourage the young generation of India to value the many gains made over the years and make sure they also contribute significantly to the resources and development of the country from where it is now.
“Your excellency, we are honoured and pleased to join the government and the people of India today to commemorate the 75 years of the Republic of India’s Independence. We take this opportunity to welcome you all as we celebrate this milestone. A special and warm welcome goes to the members of the Indian community who are with us here today and those that have not been able to be part of this momentous occasion. We have heard a couple of accessions where we have mutually shared your achievements and contributions to the Kingdom of Eswatini during the year, and this marks yet another momentous get together between our nations. We do not take it for granted that with each beautiful day, you always see it worthy to invite us and be part of your community in appreciating and joyfully exchange interactions in building our bilateral relations.”
On the day, the King added that they do not only celebrate India’s Independence but also took the moment to acknowledge the various India-Eswatini programs that the Asian nation has delivered in line with the two countries’ diplomatic and bilateral relations.
He said, “These programs have come from a very colourful and bright cultural exchange initiative which has seen a Swazi delegation being hosted in India not so long ago. We are delighted that this will in return see a dance group from India coming to visit our kingdom in a few weeks. We do believe that the dance group will get to experience the wonderful culture and hospitality of the kingdom and also get to see the scenic places spread around our valleys. We wish to extend our appreciation for making this initiative possible which exposes our young people to the world beyond what they know. These cultural exchanges may show our diversities but also highlight that we remain one as a people.”
His Majesty then stated that Eswatini further acknowledged that India’s interest has not only been in the cultural and entertainment industry, but they have also ensured that they made a significant and meaningful contribution to the kingdom’s education and capacity building for many of emaSwati particularly civil servants.
Discussion about this post