London mayor set to visit India to give a push to trade links
Sadiq Khan, mayor of London, on Tuesday announced his first visit to India later this year to promote continuing trade links with the capital currently under a cloud due to Brexit.
As London-based companies closely monitor Brexit-related developments, Khan (Labour) has been keen on ensuring that it does not adversely impact the capital’s global reputation as a centre of business and other spheres, including education. Besides India, he will also visit Pakistan.
Several Indian companies are based in London, who use it as a base to access the European market — a facility potentially under threat after Britain leaves the European Union.
The visit likely to be scheduled in December is primarily focussed on trade, but he will also interact with Bollywood actors. He will visit Mumbai, New Delhi and Amritsar, accompanied by Indore-origin Rajesh Agarwal, London’s deputy mayor for Business.
Khan said: “As someone whose grandparents were born in India, and parents moved to London from Pakistan, I feel a deep affinity for the subcontinent. But what excites me most about this trip is that I know it can deliver real benefits for Londoners.
“This is a really important mission as there are so many areas in which London can work with its counterparts across India and Pakistan. Not only in business but in tackling some of the biggest challenges we all face – such as air pollution and climate change.
“I am passionate about showing that my city will always be open to engaging with partners from around the world, and I look forward to strengthening the bonds between London and our friends in India and Pakistan later this year.” Khan’s office said the itinerary for the visit was being finalised but he will meet senior politicians, business leaders, artists, investors and entrepreneurs to discuss common areas of interest and opportunities to work together. The agenda is expected to include discussions on business and investment, regeneration opportunities, visas and major events.
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