London (dpa) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his first official visit to Britain on Thursday as his British counterpart, David Cameron, said the two leaders planned to seize a “historic opportunity” to cement trade and business ties.
“This isn’t just a historic visit; it’s a historic opportunity,” Cameron said ahead of Modi’s arrival.
“Prime Minister Modi and I intend to grab that opportunity with both hands,” he said. “Because in doing so, we can make two of the greatest countries in the world even greater.”
The two sides are expected to sign “billions of pounds of commercial deals” during Modi’s three-day visit, Cameron’s office said, while British media estimated the total value at some 10 billion pounds (15 billion dollars).
The expected agreements include plans for Britain to become a centre of offshore Rupee bonds, a partnership to develop three “smart cities” in India, and British help for the promotion of investment in India’s private sector infrastructure.
Modi is also scheduled to meet with industry leaders and address the British parliament later Thursday.
“Leaving for UK. I am hopeful this visit will strengthen economic ties between India and UK and bring more investment to India,” Modi said a pre-departure message on Twitter.
Before the visit, India announced easing foreign investment rules in 15 sectors, including defence and civil aviation, in major economic reforms to push growth.
Indian media reported that India and Britain could announce deals covering investment and defence during Modi’s visit. India is keen to buy 20 BAE Systems Hawk trainer aircraft for its armed forces, broadcaster NDTV reported.
One of the highlights of the visit is his address to an estimated 60,000 crowd at London’s Wembley stadium on Friday. The welcome speech will be delivered by Cameron.
Modi’s visit comes at a troubled time for his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, which suffered defeat in key state elections this month, sparking criticism about the party leadership.
Some groups have threatened protests during Modi’s visit. Activists from the Britain-based pro-secular Awaaz Network have accused Modi of creating an “authoritarian agenda that seeks to undermine India’s democratic and secular fabric.”
