The United Arab Republic Views India As A Modern State Heading On The Path Of Advancement

My friends,

I have eagerly awaited this opportunity to see the Bhakra Dam, which is a counterpart to the High Dam in the United Arab Republic. I profoundly appreciate the tremendous efforts I have witnessed today and the labor constructing this dam.

I feel that during the period of occupation that India had witnessed, you needed all your requisite resources in order to end the occupation and achieve independence. Now, however, the responsibility has become even greater. We need zeal, work and perseverance. Today, it unfolded before my eyes the beliefs you have embraced and the hard work you have resolved to undertake and supervise.

Besides that, I appreciate the efforts and the system you pursued in rebuilding your nation. Many countries look to you as a high illustration in this regard.

The United Arab Republic views India as a modern state heading on the path of advancement. We look to it as a state striving by every means to advance, to strengthen its works and institutions and to make up for what it missed in the past.

All the nations of Africa and Asia look to India as an illustration of political independence. Also, they see it as a country that is growing stronger, producing, and pursuing an independent policy; while at the same time, India is working to elevate itself and reach the highest levels of progress and advancement.

Therefore, we seek to benefit from these experiences, for everything India has gone through can serve as a lesson to us. The newly independent nations of Africa and Asia look to you as a good and worthy illustration.

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Speech by President Gamal Abdel Nasser during his visit to the Bhakra Dam in North Punjab
On April 1, 1960.