Improving Trade and Cultural Links With India

Last Thursday the Scottish Parliament’s Cross-Party Group on India (pictured) met the High Commissioner of the Republic of India to the United Kingdom, Mr Vikram K Doraiswami.

Mr Doraiswami and Vice Consul Mr Vineet provided an update on the recent India-UK trade deal and were very enthusiastic about boosting trade and cultural links with Scotland.

India is now the world’s most populous country, with £1,428 million people in 2023 – a number that’s still rising.

With the fifth largest economy in the world, growing at 7% a year, India represents huge opportunities for Scotland.

Indian companies are keen to invest in life sciences, distilleries, green energy, hospitality and share expertise in aerospace, finance etc.

The economic opportunities are vast, and the University of Aberdeen already has a campus in Mumbai, one of only 11 European universities to establish such facilities in India.

Indians are keen on Scotland, their favourite destination in Europe after London.

I have long pushed for direct flights between Scotland and India. Mr Doraiswami said this was ‘definitely on Air India’s radar.’ The problem is a shortage of jets, with 1,300 on order!

The CPG is determined to continue to build Scotland’s relationship with India – for the mutual benefit of both.