The ‘people’s ambassador’ bids farewell to Oman

Muscat: India’s Ambassador to Oman Indra Mani Pandey organised an event at the embassy to say goodbye to dignitaries from the ministry, ambassadors from other nations, and members of the Indian community.
The well-attended event commenced with an emotional farewell speech by Indra Mani Pandey and his wife, Sushma, followed by a meet-and-greet and a photo opportunity with the ambassador.
In his speech, the ambassador thanked His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, government officials, fellow diplomats, and the Indian diaspora for their support and cooperation, and vowed to keep in touch with the community through social media.
“I received full cooperation from the government, as well the people of Oman, including the vibrant Omani business community, which enabled me to initiate various steps to translate into reality the vision of the leadership of the two countries to strengthen and expand the strategic partnership between India and Oman,” he said.
“What I was able to do in Oman was not because of the efforts I made to reach out to the Indian community, but because of the efforts the community made to reach out to me,” said Pandey, as he outlined his major achievements during his tenure in the Sultanate.
Mrs. Pandey’s speech also made those in attendance emotional. “We are like saplings,” she remarked. “We are nourished and nurtured by the people around us so we can grow and help the same people. I would like to thank you all for all the love and support, and we will miss Muscat dearly.”
Popularly known among the Indian community as the “people’s ambassador,” Pandey was showered with gifts, such as bouquets and paintings, as well as praise for the work he was able to perform during his three-year tenure.
Several women who previously worked with Mrs. Pandey at a number of events across Muscat also expressed their appreciation for the ambassador’s wife. “The ambassador is a great human being and Muscat will miss him,” said Madhulika Gupta, an Indian expat. “It was very encouraging for me to work with Ma’am Sushma. She will be immensely missed by all of us.”
The ambassador was known for regularly conducting and attending open houses, during which he would personally interact with distressed Indian expats, not only in Muscat but also in the interior. A number of state visits from India occurred during his tenure, including the historic visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey and Sushma Pandey will leave the country on July 29, 2018.