The New Zealand branch of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) will mark its fourth anniversary with a gala dinner and entertainment in Alexandra Park, Auckland on Saturday, October 27.
National President Alkesh Sharma said that since its formation in 2008, the association had grown to account for 12 chapters throughout the country.
“We are proud that as a non-political and not-for-profit organisation, GOPIO stands to serve the interests of community in North and South Island. The Organisation has more than 180 members who are professionals, entrepreneurs and business and community leaders,” he said.
Mr Sharma said that the association believes in volunteering, secularism, with the main objective of enhancing cooperation and communication between Indians living in different countries.
GOPIO was established in New York City in 1989 as an international network, connecting PIO throughout the world.
Mr Sharma said that the initial thrust of the organisation was to fight against the violation of human rights of PIO.
“Although human rights have improved over the past decade, violation continue to be a major issue for Indians living outside India.. GOPIO has now set its priorities in pooling its resources, both financial and professional, for the benefit of PIOs, the countries they come from and India,” he said.
According to him, the objectives of GOPIO are to promote common cultural heritage and therefore create a binding relationship and mobilise financial, intellectual and professional resources of Indians abroad for their mutual development and advancement.
“GOPIO also encourages interaction between communities of Indians abroad at the global level to deliberate and decide on common issues and problems facing them including education and technology. We also aspire to further interaction between PIOs and other communities in promoting world peace, progress and ecological harmony,” Mr Sharma said.
What: GOPIO Anniversary
Where: Alexandra Park, Greenlane, Auckland
When: Saturday, October 27, 2012 at 630 pm
Contact: Alkesh Sharma on 021-429389
Email: alkesh@xtra.co.nz
