1803 Central Park Circle, Boyds
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As prepared
Good evening and thank you for allowing me to be part of this special occasion on the Diwali - the new year of the Hindu calendar occurring just two weeks from now!
This is the biggest Gujarat traditional event in the Country; and I want to recognize the “living legend” Shri Atul Purohit who journeyed so far to join us tonight.
I also want to thank local supporters who brought this beautiful event to fruition for the South Asian Community.
Two years ago next month, Delegate Miller and I, joined by Montgomery College President Dr. DeRionne P. Pollard, now-County Council President Nancy Floreen, and several County business leaders went on a 12-day mission trip to India and Taiwan to broaden the County’s reach in education, biotech and other high-tech areas and help local businesses and Montgomery College extend their markets in India.
The delegation opened doors for County businesses and established a “Sister City” relationship with Hyderabad, a major IT hub in India dubbed “cyberabad.”
We also furthered the study of languages, cultures and the humanities through the signing of a collaboration agreement between the Global Institute of Humanities at Montgomery College and Jindal Global University.
It was and is important to make this happen, because India represents tremendous opportunity for the County to leverage our own, very large Indian American community and strengthen ties to one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
India is recognized as a powerhouse in technological knowhow and drive. The people of India stress the importance of education, and strive to be a leader in technology development, building a stronger society, and next-generation thinking. It is easy to see why our relationship with them is so strong – we share common goals.
Thank you for inviting me to this wonderful celebration. I look forward to seeing you all next year.
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Release ID: 16-056