OTTAWA, March 26, 2013 – The hill was alive with the sound of Indian music as parliamentarians joined Senator Asha Seth for a reception showcasing the work of the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute (SICI) in promoting academic, research, and exchange opportunities between Canada and India. The event featured exotic Indian treats and music. Deputy High Commissioner of India H.E. Narender Chauhan, Ministers Joe Oliver and Bal Gosal, and SICI president-elect Dr. Shanthi Johnson were among the many distinguished guest.

“For over 40 years, Shatri Institute has been fostering education and cultural cooperation and collaboration between Canada and India, as a unique bi-national organization and consortium of 93 universities and institutions of higher learning and research including most of the eminent and flagship institutions in both countries,” remarked Dr. Johnson.

“As I said today in chamber, our government is eager to expand relations with India, both commercially and culturally. Education is a key area where we must focus if this goal is to be achieved, that is why I am proud to be working the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute to promote research, dialogue and exchange between Canada and India,” said Senator Asha Seth.

The Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute has created innumerable people to people ties through its vast network of institutions. Education is one of the key priorities of the Government of Canada and the Government of India as the driver for economic prosperity, creating a globally focused workforce, and social progress.

To learn more about the Shastri indo-Canadian Institute please visit: http://www.sici.org/home/ -30-

For more information, please contact:

Senator Asha Seth’s Office (613) 797-1176 romeror@sen.parl.gc.ca