Will open Dy High Commission in A'bad to broaden UK-Gujarat ties: British energy minister

Says Vibrant Gujarat has become a byword for attracting investment

In an attempt to "deepen and broaden ties between UK and Gujarat", the British government is set to open a Deputy High Commission in Ahmedabad, said Rt. Hon. Edward Davey MP, British Cabinet Minister for Energy and Climate Change at the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A).

Davey, who earlier in the day met Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel, said, "Vibrant Gujarat has become a byword for attracting investment: it's a powerful symbol of the success of Gujarat. The UK was delighted to be a country partner to the 2013 event and we look forward again to partnering Vibrant Gujarat 2015. And because Gujarat matters, I am delighted that the UK will strengthen our relationship further with an agreement to open a Deputy High Commission here in Ahmedabad."

The British Cabinet Minister stated that in his meeting with the CM, he said that a DHC in Ahmedabad will help the British Government deepen and broaden ties between the UK and Gujarat. "It will help us to build on the thriving business links that drive growth here and in the UK," he added.

Speaking on the topic 'Changing Economics & Tackling Climate Change & Driving Growth' as part of the Post Graduate Programme for Executives (PGPX) hosted lecture series, Davey said that as one of the fastest growing cities in India, Ahmedabad was demonstrating that fact that both environment and growth & development can go hand in hand.

"This city - Ahmedabad - is demonstrating the way forward. And from being the third most polluted city in India in 2005, this city is now receiving environmental awards for sustainable transport, urban planning, and waste management. And has cutting pollution and increasing renewable energy harmed Ahmedabad? Absolutely not. GDP has been growing at an average of over 10% per annum in the last few years an incredible track record, of green growth," he stated.

Meanwhile, Davey further stated that being the driver of growth and prosperity, the 'Gujarat Model' was being publicly followed by the new Government in Delhi.