Terrorism, climate change to figure in Manmohan-Brown talks

Date:19/01/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/01/19/stories/2008011959041300.htm

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Terrorism, climate change to figure in Manmohan-Brown talks

Sandeep Dikshit

NEW DELHI: British Prime Minister Gordon Brown will arrive here on Sunday to coordinate the approach of the two countries on reforms of multilateral institutions providing aid to African countries, climate change and terrorism.

“We want to bring out two themes — to work with India in third countries and talk in detail with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh about reforms in the international system. The visit will also give Mr. Brown an opportunity to explain Britain’s philosophy of development,” British High Commissioner Richard Stagg said on Friday.

Recalling that both countries had resolved to work closely on terrorism issues, the High Commissioner said they would discuss “practical areas” for collaboration. Subjects could include exchanging experiences on keeping the rail transport functioning (Mumbai suburban rail and London metro) after terrorist strikes and ensuring the possibility of a terrorist attack on multinational sporting events is kept to the minimum.

On his maiden visit to the country after taking over as Prime Minister in June last year, Mr. Brown is expected to utilise his two-day stay to discuss the situation in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Myanmar. Mr. Stagg said Britain felt that effective steps had not been taken to make the Myanmar government more inclusive and both Prime Ministers would discuss the implications of the lack of progress and ways to address it.

Entrepreneurship conference

On Sunday, Mr. Brown will also address an entrepreneurship conference which will discuss some practical issues facing businessmen. This will be followed by a private dinner with Dr. Singh, with formal talks to take place the next day.

Also on Monday, Mr. Brown will deliver a speech with the focus on an altered international framework and making international governance both representative and effective to reflect the changed realities of the world. He will also be conferred an honorary degree by the Delhi University. A joint press conference with Dr. Singh has also been planned.

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