A DELEGATION from the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) of Guyana, led by Chairman Sheikh Moeenul Hack, recently visited the Indian High Commission in Guyana to engage in discussions with Indian High Commissioner Amit Telang and his team. The visit focused on exchanging perspectives about fostering harmony and strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two countries.

During the visit, the ERC delegation provided an overview of its work aimed at promoting ethnic harmony and understanding within Guyana. In turn, High Commissioner Telang shared insights about India’s multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-religious, and multi-lingual society, emphasising the significance of ‘Unity in Diversity’—a principle that is crucial for the upliftment and welfare of all sections of society. He highlighted the importance of maintaining social harmony to ensure the progress and well-being of diverse communities.

Both the ERC delegation and the Indian High Commission recognised the deep historical ties and shared values between Guyana and India. They reflected on their countries’ struggles against colonialism and oppression and noted the strong foundations of freedom and democracy that both nations have built upon.

High Commissioner Telang also briefed the ERC delegation on the recent Indian parliamentary elections, describing them as a “festival of democracy.” He highlighted the scale of the elections, with nearly 600 million voters participating out of approximately 900 million registered voters. He stressed that those elections represented a tribute to the sacrifices made by those who fought for India’s freedom and that celebrating those democratic processes was essential to understanding their true significance.

The ERC delegation included several key members, such as Commissioner Charles Ogle, Deputy Chairman Norris Witter, Commissioner Deon Dick, Commissioner Pandit Krishn Sharma, Commissioner Chandrowtie Sarran, and Chief Executive Officer Gomin Camacho. The visit underscored the commitment of both Guyana and India to fostering closer ties and promoting mutual understanding between their diverse populations.