Kerala’s Growth Owes Much to Our Expatriates: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan

Abu Dhabi: Kerala Chief Minister, while addressing the Malayalothsavam in Abu Dhabi, spoke warmly about the deep emotional and cultural ties between Kerala and the United Arab Emirates.

He noted that much of what he intended to say had already been eloquently conveyed by the UAE’s ministers earlier, who reaffirmed that “Kerala is in our hearts.” The Chief Minister said those words truly reflected the shared emotions of everyone present, adding that the strong relationship between the two regions has been nurtured by the long-standing Malayali migrant community in the Gulf.

“Kerala’s development owes much to the hard work and dedication of our expatriates,” he said. “From the earliest days of migration, remittances from Malayalis here have helped the state survive and prosper. Their patience, discipline, and commitment have earned Kerala great respect in the UAE.”

He fondly recalled the UAE’s generous support during the 2018 Kerala floods, sharing a personal memory: “When Kerala was devastated by the floods, Yusuf Ali contacted me to say that the authorities here were ready to extend help. That gesture reflected the compassion and friendship of this nation. I will never forget it.”

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to UAE officials, particularly Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, for their kind words about Kerala and its people. He said the state looks forward to further strengthening its ties with the UAE, with plans underway for a meeting with the Crown Prince.

Highlighting the enduring cultural connection, he noted that nearly every family in Kerala has at least one member living in the UAE. “We are working to ensure that our younger generation abroad stays connected to their roots,” he said. “Through initiatives like the Malayalam Mission, children of non-resident Keralites are learning the language and culture of their homeland.”

He also lauded industrialist Yusuf Ali for ensuring that his children studied Malayalam in a UAE school, calling it an inspiring example for the wider Malayali community. “Wherever we go, the unity and spirit of Kerala are visible,” the Chief Minister concluded, adding that each event held abroad further strengthens this shared bond.

The Chief Minister said that the mission entrusted to the LDF government in 2016 was successfully carried out in line with the people’s aspirations. Over the past nine and a half years, Kerala has witnessed remarkable growth in every sector. He noted that the Gulf migration and the resulting economic progress have played a significant role in driving this transformation.

The Chief Minister added that the developmental initiatives launched during the 2016–21 period were effectively continued and advanced through the government’s successive term in office, ensuring steady progress for the state.

The event was inaugurated by UAE Minister Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, with M A Yusuf Ali, Vice-Chairman of NORKA Roots, presiding over the programme. Minister Saji Cheriyan, Chief Secretary Dr. A Jayathilak, and Indian Ambassador to the UAE Dr. Deepak Mittal were among those who spoke. Adv. Ansari Sainudeen, Chairman of the organising committee, delivered the welcome address, while T K Manikandan, President of the Kerala Social Centre, proposed the vote of thanks.

The event was organised under the leadership of the Malayalam Mission, the World Kerala Council, and various expatriate organisations and associations in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. On Sunday afternoon, the Chief Minister also held a meeting with representatives of expatriate organisations and prominent business figures in Abu Dhabi.