Last night, 25th November, the Conservative Friends of India (CF India) joined the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) for its annual Winter Reception, an event delivered in partnership with the CF India, 1928 Institute and Labour Indians.
The reception brought together leaders from business, politics, and the British-Indian community to celebrate the deepening ties between the United Kingdom and India.
CF India was represented by its Co-Chairs, Rt Hon Sir Oliver Dowden MP and Dr Koolesh Shah, as well as CF India Director Resham Kotecha. Guests also included Minister Kanishka Narayen and a delegation from the Government of Karnataka, led by Industry and Commerce Minister Sri M. B. Patil.
Sir Oliver Dowden delivered a keynote speech highlighting the shared values that underpin the relationship between what he called “the world’s oldest democracy and the world’s largest democracy.” Reflecting on the British-Indian community, he noted their “enterprise, hard work, sacrifice, service, respect for the rule of law, and a deep belief in freedom and opportunity.”
From the podium, Sir Oliver also spoke with pride about the role the Conservative Party played in strengthening the UK - India relationship, including laying the groundwork for the UK - India Free Trade Agreement signed earlier this year. He stated:
“As a party, we were immensely proud of the work we did to strengthen the UK - India relationship, deepening cooperation, expanding shared priorities and beginning the negotiations that paved the way for the UK - India Free Trade Agreement… But the trade agreement is not only a milestone. It is a starting point. There is so much more we can achieve together.”
Sir Oliver also reflected warmly on the contribution of the British Indian community to public life, recalling the honour of supporting Rishi Sunak from the beginning of his political career who would go on to become the UK’s first British-Indian Prime Minister and host the first Diwali reception in No.10.
The evening featured remarks from Minister Narayen, Lord Raval, and Sri M. B. Patil, who joined the event as a surprise guest speaker.
Conservative Friends of India looks forward to continuing its close work with community partners, business leaders and policymakers to deepen the strategic, economic and cultural partnership between the United Kingdom and India.
