Moray welcomes Consul General representing Indian diaspora

A diplomatic office focused on Indian-Scottish relations visited a local church to meet some of Moray’s diaspora from the subcontinent.

Based in Edinburgh, Consul General of India, Sri Siddharth Malik, was invited to Moray Council headquarters in Elgin to look at opportunities to strengthen ties, then on to St John’s Church, Forres for more general conversation and friendship-making.

Reverend Doctor Hamilton Inbadas welcomed over 20 members of the Indian community to St John’s.

He said: “We are a remarkable group for such a small place. Our community contributes significantly to Scottish life through aerospace research, health and social care, education, and religious and community service.

“This visit was a valued opportunity for us to be seen and heard.”

The event was organised with the Highland Indian Association. Mr Malik wanted to hear first hand how members of the Indian community are getting on in this part of Scotland. After listening to experiences, questions and suggestions, he outlined the support and services available through the Consulate General of India.

Attendees appreciated the refreshments on offer and the opportunity to connect in a supportive setting.

Details were also shared about the upcoming Consular Service Camp in Inverness on May 31, offering residents access to consular services such as passport renewal and OCI applications.

Earlier in the day, the Consul General held a meeting with chief executive of Moray Council, Karen Greaves and leader Councillor Kathleen Robertson (Forres, Conservative), as well as Lucy Mackenzie, vice lord-lieutenant of Moray and member of St John’s.

They discussed opportunities to strengthen India–Moray ties across a range of sectors, including trade, the alcohol-beverage industry, textiles, education, and cultural exchange.

Mr Malik expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and the council’s evident commitment to deepening the partnership.

Revd Inbadas thanked Mr Malik for his time and confirmed that he looked forward to continued engagement with the Consulate.