SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SHRIMATI PRATIBHA DEVISINGH PATIL, AT WELCOME CEREMONY

Presidential Palace, Mexico City, 17th April 2008

Buenos Dias

I am delighted to be visiting your country, a land of ancient civilizations and an inheritor of rich culture, traditions and heritage. We attach importance to our relations with your country.

I recall with warmth our meeting in New Delhi last September. Indeed, you were the first Head of State I received after having assumed the office of the President of the Republic of India. During that visit you had extended an invitation to me to pay a State Visit to Mexico. I am happy to be here at your invitation.

India and Mexico face common challenges. The focus of our policies is the betterment of the lives of our people. We are engaged in this major endeavour through systems of political governance that are rooted in plural democracy. Our overriding challenge is inclusive growth not simply growth.

Our two countries also hold similar world views. We are working together towards the establishment of a more just, humane and fair world order.

I am confident that my State Visit to Mexico will help further cement our Privileged Partnership.