CM releases Malayalam edition of book on India-UAE ties

Chandy released 'India-UAE Souhrudhathinte Sahasrabdangal' by handing over a copy to Union Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi.

Speaking at the function here, Chandy was all praise for Rajamony, whom he described as "active and enthusiastic".

The Chief Minister said Rajamony, who was Consul General in UAE for three years, had done a yeoman's service for bettering India-UAE relations during his tenure.

He remembered with gratitude the IFS officer's service especially for the Keralites who approached him in distress situations. "Our relations with UAE is old and strong," he said.

A UAE consulate will be opened in Kerala, he said, adding, a decision in this regard is soon expected.

Rajamony said the things that he had seen and heard during his tenure in UAE have been compiled in the book which he described as a "labour of love".

The English edition of the book 'India and the UAE: In Celebration Of A Legendary Partnership' was launched in UAE in 2010 and its Arabic edition is due for release early this year, he said.

Vayalar Ravi, Minister of state for External Affairs E Ahamed, Kerala Minister for Culture and Rural Development K C Joseph were among those who spoke on the occasion.

The function started with a two-minute silence as a mark of respect for renowned artist M F Hussain and veteran Marxist leader P Govinda Pillai who are no more.