India, Britain to work closely on bilateral concerns

London, Oct 17 (IANS/RAY) Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Sushma Swaraj Friday committed India to working closely with Britain on matters of bilateral concern.

The move was observed in diplomatic circles as close cooperation between the two countries in reference to Afghanistan and the Islamic State (IS) militant organisation in west Asia.

"We are committed to working closely with the UK on all areas of common interests and concerns, including at the international level," Swaraj, who is also external affairs minister, said during a reception at the British foreign office.

The external affairs ministry's spokesperson, Syed Akbaruddin, earlier told reporters that the two countries working together on Afghanistan and meeting the IS threat had come up in the bilateral meet between Swaraj and her British counterpart Philip Hammond.

Earlier in the day, while inaugurating a two-day Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, a conclave of the Indian diaspora, Swaraj urged the Indian diaspora in Britain to invest in India as the country offers tremendous opportunities and participate in India's growth story.

"As we rejoice in the success of the Indian diaspora, we also invite you to actively participate in India's growth story," the visiting minister said.

She also mentioned about the "Clean Ganga" campaign, metro rail and smart cities projects as areas where overseas Indians could participate.