Development of Buddha circuit with Singapore help

Patna, Sep 26 (UNI) Singapore has offered to support the Bihar government for the development of a Buddha circuit in the state.

Addressing mediapersons here, minister of state for foreign affairs of Singapore, Balaji Sadashivam said his government would extend full support to the state govrnment in the integrated development of Buddha circuit.

The Singapore government would cooperate with the state government in bringing back the past glory of Nalanda, having historical importance in strengthening cultural ties between East and South Asia, he added.

Recalling the visit of Indian President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam to Singapore, he said President had then stressed on the need of strengthening cultural ties between India and South Asia.

Mr Sadashiv informed that he had fruitful talks with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on the issue of coperation in tourism, education, Buddhist circuit, and trade. ''Our government could extend vital support in infrastructural development in Bihar and also for the proposed international university in Nalanda,'' he added.

He said an exhibition on the historical importance of Nalanda would be held in Singapore in 2007. Prior to the event an international seminar would also be organised there and experts from more than 16 countries including Japan and China would be invited to share their views on cultural ties between East and South Asia.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, also present on the occasion, said the state government had briefed the Foreign Minister of Singapore about the efforts by various agencies to provide better facilitis to pilgrims covering the Buddha circuit.

UNI XC-BNG SJC PM DB2134