Modi's visit another example of UK wooing Asia for trade and investment deals

London

NARENDRA Modi's red carpet visit to the UK, only weeks after Xi Jinping, is another example of the Conservative Government's trade and investment courtship of Asia.

According to diplomats, deals worth £8 to £12 billion (S$17.2 to S$25.9 billion) are likely to be signed during the Indian premier's visit to London, including purchases of 20 more BAE Systems Hawk trainer aircraft. Mr Modi, despite his controversial reputation, will become the first Indian prime minister to address both Houses of Parliament. He will receive a rock star welcome from around 60,000 of Britain's 1.5 million-strong Indian diaspora at Wembley Stadium, where there will be a concert and Diwali fireworks display.