Expressing his wishes for peace and harmony among Indians worldwide, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar observed Diwali by visiting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London.
This visit was a part of his five-day trip to the United Kingdom. The gesture highlights the cultural and religious significance of Diwali, with Jaishankar taking the opportunity to offer prayers and extend his greetings at the prominent Hindu temple in London. The visit emphasizes the importance of cultural diplomacy and engagement during international trips by government officials.
"Blessed to visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London on Deepavali. Prayed for the peace, harmony and prosperity of our community around the world," Jaishankar, who was accompanied by his wife, wrote on platform X.
The minister also spoke to the Indian community there and thanked them for their contributions that "are raising our profile around the world".
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, also known as the Neasden Temple, expressed gratitude to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for taking the time to meet devotees and participate in the Diwali celebrations.
Such interactions between government officials and religious institutions strengthen cultural ties and reflect the spirit of unity and celebration during festivals. The acknowledgment from the temple underscores the significance of these cultural exchanges and the importance of fostering connections between the government and diverse communities.
"Thank you @DrSJaishankar for taking time out to join the #Diwali celebrations at #NeasdenTemple today. We appreciate your kind words, which inspired the thousands of devotees and visitors from the local community who had joined the celebrations," the temple wrote in a message posted on X.
"May the #LivingBridge between Great Britain and Great Bharat grow and glow from strength to strength," it added.
The visit to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar followed his invitation for Diwali tea at Downing Street with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, on Sunday.
Such diplomatic and cultural engagements during festive occasions contribute to building stronger bilateral relations between nations.
These interactions not only promote mutual understanding but also underscore the significance of shared cultural celebrations in fostering goodwill and collaboration between countries.
Delighted to call on Prime Minister @RishiSunak on #Diwali Day. Conveyed the best wishes of PM @narendramodi. India and UK are actively engaged in reframing the relationship for contemporary times. Thank Mr and Mrs Sunak for their warm reception and gracious hospitality," Jaishankar wrote on X.
During his visit, which commenced on November 11, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to engage in discussions with his counterpart, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, and meet various other dignitaries.
The visit includes his participation in a Diwali reception organized by the High Commission of India in London, addressing an event at Lord’s Cricket Ground, and attending a repatriation ceremony for two ancient temple sculptures from Uttar Pradesh.
This visit holds significance in light of the ongoing negotiations between India and the UK for a free trade agreement (FTA), which have been in progress since January of the previous year.
The aim is to enhance the existing bilateral trading partnership, estimated at around GBP 36 billion. The diplomatic discussions and events during the visit contribute to strengthening ties and fostering cooperation between the two nations.
"EAM’s (External Affairs Minister) visit will give a new impetus to the friendly ties between the two countries. India and the UK share a warm and thriving relationship. The India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership was launched in 2021 along with the India-UK Roadmap 2030. The road map is a commitment to a partnership that delivers for both the countries," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
Jaishankar's visit concludes on November 15.
(With Agency Inputs)
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