India, UK ties built on shared values and traditions: Patil

Emphasizing that ties between India and the UK are built upon shared values and traditions, visiting Indian President Pratibha Devisingh Patil said on Tuesday night that the real strength of any relationship lies in the people-to-people contacts.

"The fact that almost a million people from our two countries travel annually for tourism and business purposes, and that there are over hundred flights a week linking various cities of India and the UK, forms a strong foundation to build on these contacts," said Patil at a State Banquet held in her honour.

She further went on to say that the UK is host to more than one and a half million citizens of Indian origin, representing two percent of the population who contribute between four to five percent of the country's GDP.

"They are also participating in the social and political life of the UK. The Diaspora serves as a strong asset in the development of our relationship," Patil said.

Describing London as a big, old but dynamic city, she said