'NRIs contribute 5 per cent in Britain's GDP'

Agencies Posted: Jan 09, 2008 at 0000 hrs
New Delhi, January 8: Britain on Wednesday lauded the Indian community living in UK for their role in the country's economic growth.

"Indian community is one of the largest community living in Britain and they have contributed five per cent in the country's GDP," British High Commissioner to India Richard Stagg told a gathering of NRI's at the Pravasi Awards presentation ceremony organised by the NRI institute.

Describing the relationship between the two countries as "long, large and complex", he invited people from India to invest in his country.

"We do offer a very positive environment in our country," he said.

Stagg said the two countries can cooperate in education and private sector.

"UK universities are eager to do more with Indian institutions," Stagg said, adding Britain has more experience of Public-Private Partnership than any other country.

Former Indian Army Chief J J Singh, who was also present on the occasion, said: "We have challenges, but I want to give a message that our borders are safe."

Several NRIs were awarded for their contribution in India's economic growth.