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Singapore shows interest in revival of Nalanda varsity

Focus on development of the Buddhist circuit

Patna: In response to President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam seeking international cooperation for revival of Nalanda University, the ancient seat of learning, a high level delegation from Singapore on Wednesday had a "fruitful talk" with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on the issue.

"We had a fruitful talk with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other State Government officials on Nalanda University and development of the Buddhist circuit. Singapore will definitely play a prominent role in the project," Singapore senior State Minister for External Affairs, Balaji Sadashivan told reporters here.

The Singapore minister said President Kalam during his visit to Singapore had sought international cooperation for revival of Nalanda University. "I along with a team of experts from department of tourism, trade and commerce, education and members from prominent Buddhist associations came to Bihar to have a first-hand view of the place to decide our role."

Describing Nalanda as symbol of peace and learning in the entire South East Asia, Mr. Sadashivan said an international seminar would be organised in Singapore in November this year on Nalanda in which representatives of 18 countries would take part. Besides, an exhibition would be organised on Nalanda next year, he said.

Stating his government's efforts to revive Nalanda University and develop other important Buddhist sites, the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said the NDA Government would bring a legislation in the coming winter session of assembly for setting up the Nalanda University.

He said the government was making efforts for development of the Buddhist circuit to attract international tourists in a bid to boost the state's economy.

Taking up the opportunity to list the performance of his government in the State, Mr. Kumar said the interests shown by Singapore authorities in Bihar reflected the changing face of Bihar in the eyes of the international community. -- PTI

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Singapore shows interest in revival of Nalanda varsity

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