Modi addresses Indian workers in Doha: top quotes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets Indian workers at a camp in Doha, Qatar on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday, assured Indian workers in Qatar that he will take up the problems faced by them during his talks with leaders of the Gulf nation. Addressing Indian workers at a medical camp in downtown Doha, Mr. Modi said he is aware of the issues being faced by Indian workers and the companies that bring them here.

Here are the highlights:

1	“I am aware of the issues you are facing. I will talk about it when I meet the authorities,” he said. Mr. Modi will hold detailed talks with Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al—Thani today.
2	“I came to Doha in the evening and the first programme on my schedule was to meet you all,” he said. Qatar is home to over six lakh people of Indian origin.
3	The Prime Minister said he wants to congratulate doctor friends for the good work they are doing in Qatar. “Happy to see regular health check ups being conducted here."
4	Mr. Modi also struck a chord with the Indian workers when he said, “When someone from your land, speaking your language comes, I am sure that would make you very happy.”
5	“If you have some issues on changing some rules and regulations, I will work with you all to bring about these changes.”
6	Mr. Modi said he believed that the leadership in the Gulf has a lot of love and belief in the Indian community in the region. In this context, he spoke about the visit of Qatar’s Emir to India last year and referred to his praise of the “unmatched contribution” of the Indian community to the development of his country.
7	Mr. Modi also said India’s global image is not made by its Prime Minister or its Ambassador but, “it’s all of you through your behaviour, who earn India a good name.” “This global goodwill is the biggest international reserve currency.”
8	The Prime Minister told the Indian workers that monsoon this year will be good. “This year the best news is that it is going to be a good monsoon. When such news come, they bring with them a lot of happiness.”
9	He also appreciated the wellness centre for the workers, saying that it offered facilities like yoga and relaxation techniques.
10	Mr. Modi said he enquired about the health problems being faced by the workers and found that counselling and diabetes were the two main issues of concern. “Do work hard, but while doing so, please do focus on keeping your health and body fighting fit.”