Island’s Indian community meets High Commissioner

The Royal Commonwealth Society hosted a welcome at La Vallette, where more than 40 members of the island’s 600-strong Indian diaspora had the opportunity to speak with Vikram Doraiswami about their experiences of living in the island.

Rahul Bhintade was among those who had the opportunity to speak with Mr Doraiswami at La Vallette, and said his visit would help put Guernsey on India’s map.

‘We share more similarities than people might think, our commitment to a better quality of life, our family values,’ he said.

A psychiatrist at the hospital, Mr Bhintade said that, since he moved to Guernsey nine years ago, the Indian population had grown year on year, with more and more working in sectors including finance and hospitality.

‘I feel that the High Commissioner’s visit gives us more legitimacy, it’s a signal for more Indians to come here, work and contribute to the island,’ he said.

Mr Doraiswami met Chief Minister Lyndon Trott, as well as the presidents of Economic Development and Health & Social Care, Neil Inder and Al Brouard, during his visit, with political meetings focused on economy and trade, green finance and matters relating to health and social care.

He also met Deputy Bailiff Jessica Roland and the Law Officers of the Crown at the Royal Court.

Mr Doraiswami said his visit would strengthen ties between India and the Channel Islands.

‘We have a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, which resonates deeply with our common vision for global collaboration,’ he said.

‘It has been helpful and enjoyable to explore mutual areas of interest, deepen cultural and economic exchanges, and celebrate the shared values that unite our communities.

‘I look forward to continuing to engage with the people and leadership of Guernsey to further enrich this dynamic partnership.’