Venkaiah Naidu interacts with Indian diaspora in Panama

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday interacted with the Indian diaspora in Panama.

Naidu, who is on a five-day visit to Central America, reached Panama on May 8.

During a press briefing, Naidu said, "I am delighted to meet all this evening in the buzzing capital of Panama, which is a leading and happening economy among the Latin American countries, today."

"My weeklong visit to the three Latin American countries of Guatemala, Panama and Peru is a part of the government's strategy of reaching out to various countries and regions of the world for enhanced engagement at higher levels to improve bilateral relations for mutual benefit," Naidu added.

Naidu further stated Indians were one of the largest expatriate communities in the world.

"About 32 million Indians and persons of Indian origin are living in different parts of the world, making us one of the largest expatriate communities in the world. This community of Indians living in other countries rank above the population of several countries individually," Naidu asserted.

"Such a large body of Indians contributing to the progress of our nation. Our country over the last four years is taking rapid strides on several fronts under a stable government and able leadership. This stability and ability are very crucial for fully harnessing the untapped energies of our people," Naidu noted.

Earlier in the day, India and Panama agreed to work together to deal with the menace of terrorism.

Two Memorandum of Understandings (MoU) were signed in the presence of Naidu and Panama President Juan Carlos Varela. The two countries also discussed collaborating academic and education field.

Naidu is on a three-nation visit to Guatemala, Panama and Peru which commenced from May 6.