Swedish ties

Be it music, literature or economy, the east and the west exchanging resources for the betterment of the society is not new. And this time, to strengthen the bond between Sweden and India, Her Royal Highness, crown Princess Victoria of Sweden visited Vikhe Patil School in Pune on Monday.

The princess was in the city to understand the overall functioning of the Indian school and at the same time learn about the development work being conducted at Loni by Swedish International Development Agency Sida. 8220;This is the first time that I have visited India. It has been a long awaited dream that has finally come true,8221; says the princess.

Explaining the purpose of her visit, the princess says, 8220;This was a relatively short visit given the fact that India is a diverse country. But yes, this was an effective crash course in understanding the culture and traditions of India.8221;

The princess was welcomed by the students of Vikhe Patil School, who presented traditional Indian dances in front of the foreign delegates. An impressive presentation of folk dances on the famous track- Mile sur mera tumhara won the audiences8217; applause. Ashok Vikhe Patil, founder, Vikhe Patil School explained the rural development work being conducted by Pravara Medical Trust, Loni along with the activities conducted at the school.

Declaring the purpose of her visit to be extremely successful the princess further says, 8220;I am very happy with the kind of work that is being conducted here. I understand that India is a developing country but it is satisfying to know that the education scene in India is changing and efforts are being taken to educate children from rural areas. I hope that this work continues and I get an opportunity to visit the country again.8221;