Speech By The President Of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee At The Banquet In Honour Of The President Of The Republic Of Tajikistan H.e. Mr. Emomali Rahmon
Your Excellency, President Rahmon
I extend a most cordial welcome to you and your distinguished delegation. We are indeed happy to have you amongst us once again. You are an old friend of India.
Your Excellency,
For centuries, the people of India and Tajikistan have shared ideas, knowledge, art and literature. A strong relationship has existed, from pre-historic times, between India and Central Asia, and in particular, the Tajik people.


It gives me great pleasure to be in Chennai today to deliver the valedictory address on the occasion of the 150th anniversary celebrations of the High Court of Madras. The Madras High Court has an illustrious history.
Your Excellency, President Mahmoud Abbas,
I am happy to join you today on this occasion of the 58th Convocation of IIT Kharagpur - in the Diamond Jubilee year of this proud institution. I recall my visit here in 2011 when the celebrations were launched.
I am delighted to be here at the 18th Convocation of the University of Kashmir. This is a long awaited and proud moment for those who will receive their degrees. Some of you will receive awards for your meritorious work. I offer you all my felicitations and congratulations.
Dr Shayama Chona, Founder of Tamana, Educators and the Students of Tamana Special School, I am pleased to welcome you here today.
Shri Mohammed Hamid Ansari, Vice President & Chairman, Rajya Sabha,