After a meeting with India's External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday, the Mayor said, "India is an emerging economic superpower and one of the world's greatest cultures. The importance of London's relations with India is already very great and is only going to grow further. That is why London was proud to stage India, now, a three-month celebration of India in the summer.

"I am looking forward to my forthcoming visit to India and opening London offices in Mumbai and Delhi. These will further strengthen our ties in business, society and culture."

During his meeting with the External Affairs minister, the Mayor welcomed the further strengthening of the capital's ties with India. The Mayor stressed the importance of London's links with India in all spheres and the contribution made by the Indian community to London in both business and culture.