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The Saudi-Indian Youth Forum was an
attempt to unite the youth of both countries, and come up with two
letters written by the youth of both countries, one to the
secretary-general of the United Nations, and a second to the
president of India and king of Saudi Arabia.
At first I thought it would be difficult clicking with the Indian
Youth since we come from completely different backgrounds. But
surprisingly, bonding with them came naturally. I found a lot of
similarities. We both share the same love for our countries and
long for its development.
Poor was the only word that described India for me, but the moment
we landed at Hyderabad a whole new story started. I was inspired
by all the colorful fabrics, the spices and the warm smiles
painted on the Indian people's faces. Yellow “Tuk-Tuk” filled the
streets of India; cows stroll down alleys like they own the land —
elements that give India its extraordinary flavor.
The simplicity of the people touched my heart. I was amazed by the
level of education and knowledge the Indian youth hold despite the
scarce resources available in their country, that made me realize
that money does not make you smart, money does not make you kind,
money does not make you advance in any field. I met people that
were doing all that they could to help their country advance using
the limited resources available, it was immensely inspiring.
I truly believe my colleagues and I have grown, we have learned a
lot from our fellow Indians. They have inspired us to learn more,
dream with no restrictions, and most importantly, as Indian
industrialist Tata once said citing an African proverb: “If you
want to walk fast walk alone, if you want to walk far walk
together.”
This quote touched my heart because it precisely reflects the team
atmosphere we have been living during the forum. The Saudi
delegation members started as strangers, we shared laughs, moments
of stress, and hard work that made us become one big strongly
connected family.
My last words are a thank you to the people of India who made us
feel at home, who opened their arms and happily embraced us. This
forum helped in building a bridge of understanding and prosperity
between the two cultures, my wishes for this relationship between
the Saudi and Indian youth is to grow stronger for the betterment
of both countries.
Kholoud Ben Bakr was one of the Saudi delegates visiting India
on the 10-day trip.
The above article is
published by Arab News today.
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