RIYADH – “India’s Diversity a Strategic Asset” was the theme of the first NRI Conclave organized by the International Journalists Fraternity Forum (IJFF) – Saudi Arabia Chapter at Riyadh. Former Chancellor of Maulana Azad National Urdu University, and founder of Taleem-o-Tarbiyat – Educational Initiative for the Underprivileged, Zafar Sareshwala was the Chief Guest of the evening, while Shaikh Mohammad Rahmani, President of Abul Kalam Azad Islamic Awakening Center and Chancellor Jamia Islamia Sanabil University, Delhi was the Guest of Honor. Another prominent Speaker on the dais was the Director of Anjam Group KSA – Malek Raees Ahmed, who is a key member and speaker at multiple Power and Energy platforms for Renewable Energy. The event was organized at the Red Onion Restaurant Banquet Hall, Olaya, Riyadh. It was attended by more than 100 prominent Indian community members and Saudi nationals. The event aimed to showcase India’s progress and achievements while addressing any concerns and misconceptions among the attendees.
Former Vice-Chancellor of Maulana Azad National Urdu University Zafar Sareshwala said that in the world only the people who are educated gain importance and dignity. We are the largest minority in India but educationally we are backward. Sareshwala said that education today means higher education not just literacy rate. He also said that we should not be disappointed with the situation. Where there are evildoers in the country, there are still many good-natured and positive thinking people. We should develop our relations with these non-Muslim brothers. He said that inter-religious mixing is the need of the hour. We see that even today millions of non-Muslims visit our shrines and bow their heads.
Maulana Rahmani said with reference to Holy Qur’an that Allah changes the condition of the people who try to change their condition. He said that the people who indulge in disobedience and start oppressing themselves, Allah imposes oppressors on them. The well-known businessman and director of Anam Group Saudi Arabia, Malek Raees Ahmed said that there are excellent opportunities to promote trade between India and Saudi Arabia. Joint ventures can be started between the two countries. Raees said that he met the concerned minister in India in this regard and put forward his suggestions.
The meeting started with recitation of Holy Quran by Maulana Mansoor Qasmi. After the opening remarks of the moderator of the first part of the meeting, Nayeem Abdul Qayyum, IJFF President Dr. Ashraf Ali in his welcome speech gave detailed insight on the activities of the forum and explained the aims and objectives of the conclave. General Secretary of the Forum and renowned journalist Rashid Hasan introduced the IJFF. Aamir Ismail introduced Malek Raees Ahmed, K.N. Wasif introduced Sheikh Muhammad Rahmani and forum member Nayeem Abdul Qayyum introduced Zafar Sareshwala. The second session of the meeting, which consisted of questions and answers, was anchored by Ms. Shahzeen Eram, Joint Secretary Forum. Ms. Sarah Fahad and Ms. Nadia Ouaamou represented the Saudi community. Muhammad Farooq supervised the arrangements. Heads of many Social and Professional organizations graced the occasion. Commemorative moments were presented to the guests by the forum. Many attendees presented bouquets of shawls to the guests.
