LONDON, Nov 10 (uni) Prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee arrives here on Monday for a days visit aimed at building upon the solid foundations of ties between India and Britain and cementing the existing high level of cooperation in combating global terrorism.
"Theres a strong feel good factor about our relations,; said a senior Indian diplomat.
During what is being described as an official working visit on the invitation of the British government Mr Vajpayee will meet his opposite number Tony Blair for discussions and lunch.
The meeting will take place in the backdrop of the United States-led war on the Taliban regime and follow discussions the two held in New Delhi during Mr Blairs recent visit there.
India has warmly appreciated British moves since the September 11 terrorist strikes on the US to attack the financial infrastructure of terrorists and outlaw several organisations with terrorist links.
Further measures are expected to be introduced in the house of commons in ten days time.
The prime minister will also have discussions with British home secretary David Blunkett, who will call on Mr Vajpayee.
Observers said India, by forcefully presenting its views to the international community, has got on board the main players in the war against terror.
On the ground, this has meant that there is no talk now of including "moderate Taliban elements in the future political dispensation in Afghanistan.
In addition, there is greater acceptability of the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance, who are seen as the best alternative in the current situation where countries are reluctant to commit ground troops in Afghanistan.
Perhaps the best reflection of the ties is the sheer scale of an evening reception being hosted on the occasion of Mr Vajpayees visit.
It is expected to be attended by some 600 prominent personalities from all walks of life.
They will include political luminaries from all parties, British deputy prime minister John Prescott, cabinet ministers, business leaders, entrepreneurs and some 100 members of parliament.
Although the events of September 11 will be the obvious immediate focus of the visit, both sides are keen to reinforce the strength of the bilateral relationship itself.
Economically the two nations are now closer than ever before.
Britain is the largest investor in India.
And India is the seventh largest investor in Britain, a phenomenon powered in recent years by Indias software industry expertise.
Trade between them is worth 580 million pounds a year.
London is the last halt in Mr Vajpayees three-nation tour.