Delhi 28 July 2010: David Cameron has begun a
two-day visit to India with the aim of strengthening relations and creating
jobs back in the UK. The prime minister is leading what Downing Street
describes as the largest UK trade delegation in living memory.
Mr Cameron is accompanied by senior Cabinet
colleagues and dozens of business executives. Beginning his tour in Bangalore, Mr Cameron will say
he wants to make the UK "the partner of choice" for India.
The government regards India as a vital regional and
economic partner in the drive to boost exports and investment. In an article for The Hindu newspaper, Mr Cameron
wrote: "I have come to your country in a spirit of humility.
"I know that Britain cannot rely on sentiment
and shared history for a place in India's future.
"Your country has the whole world beating a
path to its door. But I believe Britain should be India's partner of choice in
the years ahead. Starting this week, that is what we are determined to
deliver."
British High Commissioner to India, Sir Richard
Stagg, said Mr Cameron hoped to forge a new special relationship after a period
in which ties had stagnated, adding that the visit was "unique in scale
and ambition".
Among those who have travelled to India with Mr
Cameron are Chancellor George Osborne, Foreign Secretary William Hague and Business
Secretary Vince Cable.
The sizeable business delegation includes the bosses
of Barclays, Vodafone, SAB Miller and the English Premier League, while leading
academics and sporting figures - including 2012 Olympics chairman Lord Coe -
have also made the trip. (AP)
