External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday praised the Indian diaspora for strengthening India’s global connections through innovation, business, culture and the exchange of knowledge, describing overseas Indians as a vital link between the country and the rest of the world.

Speaking at the launch of the official website for the 19th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan in New Delhi, Jaishankar emphasized the growing importance of the diaspora in shaping India’s economic and social future.

The website was jointly launched by Jaishankar and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The convention is scheduled to take place in Kolkata from January 7-9, 2027, in partnership with the West Bengal government.

“The Indian diaspora thereby serves as a living bridge between India and the world. It contributes to the global exchange of ideas, knowledge, innovation, culture, and enterprise. Now, the diaspora is not merely connected to India through its past; it is also an integral part of India’s present and an important stakeholder of India’s future,” Jaishankar said.