New Delhi, October 26
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Delhi government and the government of Moscow today in order to strengthen cooperation in 11 key areas which include, culture, healthcare, education, transport management, economic trade and housing.

The signing of the MoU between the two capital cities also marked the beginning of three-day cultural celebrations—Days of Moscow in Delhi—under which a series of cultural, academic and business events will take place in the city.

The agreement was signed by Sergey Cheremin, Minister in-charge of the International Economic Relations, government of Moscow and Arvinder Singh, Minister of Urban Development following a meeting presided over by Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit.

The meeting was also attended by a high-level parliamentary delegation from Russia and another delegation led by Delhi Chief Secretary P.K. Tripathi.

The MoU will facilitate cooperation between the Delhi government and the government of Moscow for three years (2012-2015) during which both the parties will exchange delegations and groups of experts.

“Russia has been the closest friend of India and there has been close cultural ties between the two countries. This agreement will pave the way for collaboration in many areas where both the cities will be benefited,” said the Chief Minister after signing the memorandum of understanding.

New Delhi, October 26
Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda today urged the Arya Samaj to work for the eradication of a number of evil practices in society, underscoring the abhorrent practice of female foeticide among them.

Addressing an international conference on the Arya Samaj here, the Chief Minister said the state government would soon form a cow protection commission.

Lauding the role of Swami Dayanand, Hooda described him as a pioneer of social consciousness who devoted his life for the cause of humanity and worked to eradicate social evils prevailing at that time. Hooda said that he was fortunate to have been in an Arya Samaji family.

The Haryana government, he said, was implementing many schemes for the welfare of society, keeping in mind Swami Dayanand’s ideals.