In the early hours of Sunday 08 October, I arrived in Delhi with four fellow MSPs of the Cross Party Group (CPG) on India for an intense series of meetings to promote greater economic, cultural and educational links between Scotland and India.
We had discussions with the Vice President of India, Energy and Housing Minister, Chief Minister of Haryana and the British High Commissioner.
Our visit was very warmly received and we were each interviewed by Indian TV and the press, most of whom were surprised that members of three political parties could work together.
With our key focus on fintech, we also met the Tata Group, Invest India, three Fintech start-up companies, a potential investor in Scotch whisky and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce, among many others.
Importantly, as a CPG we have much to focus on if we are to deliver on our objectives, ranging from direct flights from Scotland to India, increased co-operation in fintech, renewables, food and drink etc.
The hospitality and kindness was overwhelming at times, with frequent gifts of flowers and books.
I returned home a day early on 12 October to meet XLCC that afternoon, who will bring up to 900 jobs to my constituency, and for our North Ayrshire Employment Fayre the following day.
I thank everyone who worked so hard to make the CPG visit happen.
