world

Updated: May 25, 2016 11:39 IST

Priti Patel, minister of state for employment in the British government, has congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the second anniversary of his government.

Patel, one of six ministers in the camp backing Britain’s exit from the European Union, also has the role of “Indian Diaspora Champion”.

She said in a statement: “I would like to congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the second anniversary of his election victory. He set out an ambitious vision for India – one of inclusive, sustainable development. We remain committed to supporting the Prime Minister’s vision for India’s transformation and to taking the UK-India relationship to new heights.

She added: “As the world’s oldest democracy and largest democracy, the UK and India share a long-standing friendship anchored in democratic values, shared history and common interests. Prime Minister Modi has set a new level of ambition for our growing partnership.”

Patel is the only Indian-origin MP in the Brexit camp. Nearly 15 lawmakers of Indian origin recently launched the forum “British Indians for In” to campaign for Britain to remain in the EU during the June 23 referendum.

During Modi’s November visit, he said India would like Britain to remain in the EU since more than 800 Indian companies based in Britain use the country as a gateway to the European market.