RIYADH — Principals and officials of all 10 Indian schools in the Kingdom under the supervision of the embassy gathered in Riyadh recently to bid farewell to the country's outgoing ambassador. Speaking at a function held in International Indian School Riyadh, Hamid Ali Rao said every Indian should think of India's diversity that makes unbreakable bonds among its people. He said he travelled to more than 200 countries around the world but has never seen the tolerance and values that existed in India anywhere else. The ambassador said he would never forget his compatriots who helped fellow Indians in the Kingdom in their time of need. He said the successful repatriation of 140,000 Indians during the amnesty declared by the Saudi authorities would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of community volunteers. Stating that the welfare of the Indian community was most important for him, Rao hoped this legacy would continue in the future. Rao assumed charge as India's ambassador to Saudi Arabia on Sept. 24, 2011. Deputy Chief of Mission Hemant Kotalwar, second secretary and observer of schools Dr. Hifzur Rahman and M.R. Qureshi, consul and head of chancery, were also present at the function. Dr. E.K. Muhammad Shafie, principal of International Indian School-Dammam, highlighted Rao's achievements as ambassador to Saudi Arabia. In his welcome address, IIS-Riyadh Principal Dr. S.M. Shaukat Perwez described Rao as “the ambassador of simplicity” who will always remain “in our hearts”. Principal of IIS Jubail Dr. Syed Hameed conducted the proceedings. Syed Masood Ahmad, principal of IIS Jeddah, proposed the vote of thanks. Rao attended the function accompanied by his wife Dr. Asiya Hamid Rao. Chairmen of the school management committees honored the ambassador by presenting him mementoes. In a cultural program that followed, young girls of IISR primary section sang a farewell song while middle school boys sang the patriotic song “Mera Bharat Mahan.”
