Visiting Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi has urged the Indian diaspora in New Zealand to remain united and strong, and be fully integrated with the country's multi-cultural ethos.
Speaking at a reception organised in his honour by the Auckland Indian Association on Monday, the minister said: "I am proud to be an Indian. Every Indian should be a proud Indian".
He also took the opportunity to explain the core objectives of his ministry.
Ravi, who is on the last leg of a tour to the Australia-Pacific region, also met New Zealand's Minister of Ethnic Affairs Chris Carter and discussed, among other things, issues related to the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.
Ravi invited the Indian community to attend the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, the annual conclave of the Indian diaspora to be held in New Delhi in January next year. He also attended a special Diwali festival, organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation in Wellington.
In his address at the function, the minister extended warm Diwali greetings to the gathering and commended Anand Satyanand, the Indian-origin governor-general of New Zealand, on his elevation to the highest office of the land.