Richard Barnes, London’s Deputy Mayor, was in Mumbai yesterday to take part in a conference exploring the lessons that can be learned following terrorist attacks in New York, London and Mumbai, also present were members of the New York 9/11 Commission.
Mr Barnes said that by working together, the world’s major cities “can learn lessons from each others experience and jointly work to protect our citizens in challenging circumstances.”
City Hall says the Deputy Mayor would also be using his visit to seek to strengthen ties between the capital and Mumbai after a recent Think London report commissioned by PricewaterhouseCoopers showed that Indian executives rated London as the city of choice in which to locate.
In a statement issued by City Hall, London Mayor Boris Johnson commented: “as I know from my close relatives in Mumbai, that great city has an irrepressible entrepreneurial spirit and energy very similar to what has made London the vibrant and successful place it is. We have much in common and I’m pleased to say, a close and evolving relationship.”
“Like Mumbai, London needs to ensure that key projects keep on track during this recession. British and foreign owned companies must continue doing business here, through these difficult times and to help us back into prosperity. Despite the economic downturn, London remains the city of choice for Indian executives who recognise our city’s unique attributes, expertise and benefits. And London provides an excellent resource of brilliant talent as the Indian government looks overseas for Indian professionals with the very best training and expertise. London is best placed as a truly international city to come through these tough times.”
