Indian-Americans have been extraordinary source of strength during pandemic, says Ambassador Sandhu

The Indian-American community has been an extraordinary source of strength during the coronavirus pandemic, India's Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu said Wednesday, asserting that they have stepped up and shown leadership in these difficult times.

"The Indian community in the United States has been an extraordinary source of strength and support for our Embassy since the time this crisis broke out. You have stepped forward and shown leadership in difficult circumstances and demonstrated the strength of the Indian diaspora," Sandhu said in a virtual interaction with a group of eminent Indian-American community leaders from across the country.

Applauding them for their sense of community service and duty, Sandhu said they have gone above and beyond in extending a helping hand to those who need.

"You are example not just for India but also for the United States. The selfless service that many of you are providing amongst your local communities in the United States has been appreciated by leaders here and makes me very proud, he said.

"Needless to say, Indian-Americans are leading this country in the fight against Covid19. Whether as healthcare workers; doctors; scientists, business-owners -- you are leading the charge against Covid and your contributions will not go unacknowledged," he said.

Describing them as important stakeholders in the India-US relationship, he said that the community is the common bond which brings the two countries together. "As global strategic partners, we have close co-operation in all spheres of human activity including scientific and medical research."