The government of the United Kingdom should support efforts to teach South Asian languages because strong ties between the two nations depend on these language abilities, said Gareth Thomas, Labour and Co-op Member of Parliament for Harrow West in Northwest London.
"The teaching of South Asian language needs to get serious financial and academic backing from the UK. The economic future of Britain rests on the teaching of Gujarati, Urdu, and Hindi, as well as on the opportunity it provides for young people in our country to attain academic excellence ", Gareth stated in an interview with news agency ANI.
"As the United Kingdom aspires to strengthen its trade relations with India, we must invest in South Asian languages; these language abilities are critical to maximising our relationship. India has a growing middle class as well as a growing population and economy, which makes it a key partner for the UK," he added further.
The MP praised India-UK ties, saying that "the shared history and communities should be maximised for the economic and cultural benefits that our two great nations deserve."
Gareth highlighted India's economy as a bright spot against global economic difficulties, stressing the bilateral trade agreement.
"The robustness of India's economy is indeed a bright spot in the midst of worldwide economic and geopolitical headwinds, and a Trade deal between the UK and India will only further boost India's and further establish India as one of the key nations to shape the twenty-first century," Gareth remarked.
"A free trade agreement between our two countries has the potential to create not only opportunities for business, but also opportunities for individuals who want to study, travel, and experience what our two countries have to offer": he continued.
Gareth Thomas is a Labour and Coop Party MP and Shadow Trade Minister. Gareth has represented Harrow West since 1997 and was a Trade and Development Minister in the previous Labour government.
Gareth's constituency in Northwest London, Harrow West, is a diverse community with a substantial South Asian diaspora. His constituency has allowed him to witness firsthand the effort that Temples and Mosques do to assist young people in learning South Asian languages.
(With Inputs From ANI)