Beginning of a new phase of Indo-British relationship

The first visit to India by British Prime Minister David Camroon after his election is very significant. The tone and tenor in which he warned Pakistan not to sponsor terrorism in India, Afghanistan and anywhere else in the world has great significance. Cameron, who began his 48-hour visit to India from Bangalore Tuesday night, has identified three key issues — business, global security and climate issues — that, he has stressed, will form the pillars of a deeper and wider relationship with India. The solidarity he has shown with India on the issue of fighting terrorism is praiseworthy.It becomes more so important when he said that he had talked with US President Barack Hussain Obama and he was in line with him on the issue of fighting terror. Camroon has described Indo-British relationship as a new enhanced era. His visit to India has put to rest all doubts about being not so friendly with India under the regime of Conservative-led government in Britain. With India emerging as the economic global power, UK under Camroon has emphasised the need for increasing and encouraging trade between the two countries. British Prime Minister appears realised the importance of booming Indian economy and Indian economy grew so fast that the time had gone when only Britain was its main business partner. UK was at No. 3 with whom India used to do business and now it has descended to No.13. The agreement of a 700 million pound (Rs 5,200 crore)-deal for purchase of an additional 57 Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer Aircraft from British Aerospace Systems (BAE) during Camroon’s visit is also a clear reflection of India's growing economy. Giving a boost to Indo-British defence ties, India has inked a 700 million pound (Rs 5,200 crore)-deal for purchase of an additional 57 Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer Aircraft from British Aerospace Systems (BAE). Accoding to British PM Camroon, this is the second tranche of the purchase by India since 2004 when it had finalised a deal to buy 66 HAWKs.This is an outstanding example of India-UK defence and industrial partnership. The agreement will bring significant economic benefits to both our countries. It is evidence of our new, commercial foreign policy in action.British Prime Minister David Camroon has also met President and discussed with her trade and global terror. He is to hold meeting with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and is expected to discuss the issue of trade and terror. The most important message that he has sent out that Britain is on side of India on the issue of fighting terrorism and warning to Pakistan not export terror into India.