The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International) concluded its 25th Anniversary (Jubilee) Convention 2014 in Port of Spain in Trinidad and Tobago, with a memorable and highly successful celebration from 27th May through 30th May, 2014 coinciding with the 169th anniversary of Indian Arrival Day commemoration in Trinidad & Tobago. The convention theme was “Indian Diaspora Today and Tomorrow”.

The convention was an historic event in the Indian Diaspora attended by delegates from several countries where GOPIO is prominent and where persons of Indian origin reside in substantial numbers and many from countries with fewer than 10% of the population. Countries include: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Malaysia, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, India, Reunion Island, Mauritius, South Africa, Netherlands and other countries of the European Union (EU), United Kingdom, Canada, USA, the Caribbean region: Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Belize, St. Vincent, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Jamaica, Grenada and St Lucia.

Among the many events of the convention, some of the notable highlights include: An elaborate welcome reception at the Diplomatic Centre residence of Hon. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago, GOPIO’s elections for new officers, GOPIO International Council Meetings; an all-day academic conference based on the convention theme of “Indian Diaspora Today & Tomorrow”; GOPIO delegates as special guests at cultural performances held at National Cultural of Indian Culture (NCIC), and unveiling of a historic arrival monument at Waterloo-by-the-Sea marking the first arrivals of indentured Indian laborers in Trinidad on 30th May 1845.

GOPIO Executive Council Elections and New Team

Elections were held by GOPIO International Council for several positions in GOPIO’ Executive Council. The following officials were elected by unanimous vote for the next 2-year term beginning May 28, 2014:

* President - Ashook Ramsaran

* Executive Vice President - Sunny Kulathakal

* Senior Vice President - Dr. Piyush Agrawal

* International Coordinator North America - Dr. Renuka Misra

* International Coordinator Caribbean. - Dr. Arnold Thomas

* Chairman GOPIO International, Inder Singh, was elected for another term.