New Delhi: Reaching out to Indians who have been victims of violence in other countries, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today affirmed that the security and welfare of Indian residents living abroad is a "top priority" of the country s diplomatic missions.

Singh's remarks during the opening of the Sixth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas here came with the recent violence in Malaysia and Kenya, where people of Indian origin were affected, apparently weighing in his mind.

"The security and welfare of Indian residents living abroad is a top priority of our diplomatic missions," Singh said while opening the annual event of Overseas Indians. Singh also urged community leaders to develop better liaison and coordination with Indian missions to better serve Non-Resident Indian (NRI)communities.

"It is through such engagement that the embassies will become more responsive to the needs of overseas Indians," he said. Singh said the gathering of the Pravasi Bharatiya in the Capital has, therefore, a global relevance.

"We can show our troubled, divided, embattled world a new pathway to living together inspired by our modern idea of Unity in Diversity ," he added. The Prime Minister said this message is especially relevant today as we see growing violence in many parts of the world where Indian communities are settled.

Singh also spoke about a clear recognition in India of the growing clout and influence of Indian communities in their adopted homes.

Source : PTI