An Indian politician was here recently to promote Indo-Arab ties. "It has always been my objective to further strengthen the historic ties between India and the Arab world," said Jaber Patel, president, India Arab Friendship Foundation (IAFF). With this aim, he established the India Arab Friendship Foundation (IAFF) in October 2014, a non-political and non-governmental organization. IAFF, which has the approval of the Arab League, strives to promote education, culture, medical tourism, commerce and trade for mutual benefit. It also explores investment opportunities in different sectors in India and the Arab world. Patel, who has developed personal rapport with ambassadors of Arab countries in India, says that he uses his offices for the exchange of expertise and experience. Although Patel is a member of the Congress party, he does not confine himself within political boundaries when it comes to social work. Patel is tirelessly working to provide better educational facilities and opportunities for Indians. He said that he would take up with the Indian government the issue of higher education for Indians living in Saudi Arabia. "It is upsetting to know that the 2.5 million Indian community in Saudi Arabia does not have higher education facilities for their children in the Kingdom," he said, adding that many Arab students were pursuing higher studies in India without facing any problems. Patel also wants to take up on a priority basis the issue of Waqf properties in the Kingdom of the erstwhile Nizam state. There are some 90 Waqf properties in the Kingdom of the late Nizam of Hyderabad. These properties could be used for the accommodation of Indian pilgrims, he said. Patel advises Indian Muslims to find a political voice. "It's important to have representation in state legislates and parliament from any party," he said, adding that divisive politics must be shunned and secularism must be promoted.
