Surrey (Rajeev Sharma): High Commissioner of India to Canada Shri Dinesh K. Patnaik, accompanied by Mrs. Poonam Patnaik and Shri Masakui Rungsung, Consul General of India, undertook a series of community outreach engagements during his inaugural visit to Vancouver, reinforcing India’s commitment to its diaspora in Canada.
The delegation commenced the visit by paying obeisance at the Laxmi Narayan Temple in Surrey, where they were received with a traditional welcome by the temple management. In his remarks, High Commissioner Patnaik acknowledged the Indian diaspora’s valuable contributions to Canadian society and to India–Canada relations. He urged community members to continue serving as a bridge between the two nations and reaffirmed the High Commission’s readiness to provide all necessary support.
Subsequently, High Commissioner Patnaik and Mrs. Patnaik visited the Gurudwara Khalsa Diwan Society in Vancouver, offering prayers for collective well-being, strength, and wisdom. Addressing the gathering, the High Commissioner encouraged the community to remain united and assured them that the High Commission and Consulates in Canada remain committed to assisting Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin.
The visit reflects India’s sustained efforts to deepen engagement with its diaspora and enhance people-to-people connections, a key pillar of India–Canada relations.
