Indo-Pak jointly celebrate 60 yrs of Independence

London, June 12: An event celebrating 60 years of Independence of India and Pakistan was held here at Hilton hotel on Park.

The unique Indo-Pak Independence Ball was hosted jointly by Indian and Pakistan businesses last evening.

Led by the committee patrons Lord Bagri and Joginder Sanger, the function was attended by over 300 invitees, including over 30 MPs, Indian and Pakistan high commissioners, bankers and mayors.

David Cameron, the Tory leader who was the guest of honour iterated the need for forging stronger relations with India based on shared values, history and deep links. ''Britain and India have joint rolesin shaping the future, '' he said.

Indicating how Indian businesses were ''straddling across the globe'' he said the world's centre of gravity was shifting from the west to the south-east. He said, ''Britain has had historic links with both India and Pakistan and we Conservatives aim to create new relations based on our common culture.'' Speaking at the event Mr Cameron said during his visit to India he found bubbling optimism, highly talented and skilled force and was impressed by the architectural landscape of Mumbai.

''Those who believe that our business links with India are limited to call centres must see India's massive headways in pharmaceuticals, IT and the Indian enterprise,'' taking on likes of Corus.

''From the tenth largest investor India is now the second largest investor in the UK,'' he added.

He also pointed out the social cohesiveness of the Asians.

While directing towards Monty Panesar who was one of the invitees, Mr Cameron said, ''He is the face of our British spin.

We have two millio Asians doing well in all walks of life. We have 140,000 Asian businesses.''

UNI