Meenu Malhotra Appointed First Honorary Council of Newcastle by Indian High Commissioner

Vikram Doraiswami, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, has appointed Meenu Malhotra as the first Honorary Council of Newcastle. Malhotra aims to strengthen ties between the north-east region of England and India, leveraging his extensive business portfolio and connections.

Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, announced the appointment of Meenu Malhotra as the first Honorary Council of Newcastle, making him a key liaison in the northernmost metropolitan borough of the country. Malhotra, chairman of the Tyneside-based Malhotra Group, oversees a large regional property portfolio and commercial developments in India, alongside interests in care homes.

In a conversation with ANI, Doraiswami emphasized the honorary role's significance, stating, 'The idea is to utilize all the energy and relationships that Meenu Malhotra has built in the region, not just for his business but also as an Indian in this area.' He added that an honorary consulate provides a cost-effective way to enhance diplomatic relationships without the substantial investment required for a full-fledged consulate.

Newly appointed Malhotra expressed optimism about the potential synergies between north-east England and India. He highlighted that the new India House will serve the local Indian community, reducing the need for travel to London for consular services. 'We are here to bridge the gap that has existed for a long time,' Malhotra said.

The appointment ceremony, held at the Hilton Gateshead Hotel in Newcastle, was attended by notable figures such as Sunil Kant Munjal, Chairman of Hero Enterprise, and former minister Guy Opperman. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)