"This week we also commemorate, once again, the men and women from our two countries who fought together in both World Wars for freedom and democracy. India made a huge contribution to Britain's war effort and staggering numbers fought on behalf of the allied forces," Britain's minister in charge of India in the UK Foreign Office Hugo Swire said.
"Today, British Indians contribute immensely to the UK and are a cornerstone of British life. We see their success in culture, business, media, public services and, increasingly, in politics too," he said.
Swire said in a statement: "As the Minister of State for India at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, I am delighted that Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi will be visiting the United Kingdom this week. The UK and India have a natural affinity rooted in a longstanding friendship, shared values and deep links between our people.
"The visit by Prime Minister Modi this week is an opportunity to celebrate the ties between our two great countries and deepen our existing bonds in business, education, security, and culture," he said.
"As the oldest democracy and the largest democracy in the world it is right that we come together and build two great futures for our two nations.
