External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday inaugurated the ‘New Delhi Hall’ at the SCO Secretariat in Beijing, which he said portrays a “little India” and will create a better understanding of the country’s way of life.
Jaishankar virtually inaugurated the hall ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit next month, which India will host for the first time under its chairmanship.
The high-level diplomatic zone in Beijing houses the secretariat of the SCO grouping, which includes China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan.
While the six founding members – China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan – have halls that highlight their distinct cultures, India is the first country to have its own “New Delhi Hall”, which is officially recognized by the SCO. will be opened first. The summit on July 4—which will be held virtually.
Pakistan may have to wait till its turn to erect its hall.
In his video address, Jaishankar said: “I am delighted to inaugurate the New Delhi Hall at the SCO Secretariat today amidst the dignified presence of the SCO Secretary-General and other distinguished colleagues.”
“I am particularly happy to note that this is being done under the first SCO Presidency which will soon conclude with the SCO Summit,” he added.
Jaishankar said, the New Delhi Hall has been envisioned as a “mini India” at the SCO Secretariat and will include various features of Indian culture.
“To give you a feel of the depth of India’s artistic tradition and cultural identity, the hall has been designed with exquisite patterns and motifs representing the rich architectural craftsmanship found across India,” he added.
That said, the hall, with its traditional plan, is equipped with current advancements to work with congregations in both physical and virtual organizations.
“I am hopeful that the New Delhi Hall will be a useful addition to the SCO Secretariat adding Indian colours/flavour to the multi-cultural and multi-national character of the SCO Secretariat. He said, this hall will be a testimony of India’s commitment to promote the essence of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ ie ‘the world is one family’.
He said that India’s dedication to promoting the essence of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, which translates to “the world is one family”, would be displayed by the hall.
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