Ahmedabad
Boris Johnson became the first British Prime Minister to visit the Sabarmati Ashram on Thursday expressed his amazement at the simple principles of truth and non-violence advocated by Mahatma Gandhi that changed the world for the better.
Johnson, who landed in Ahmedabad on Thursday to begin a two-day visit to India, was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupesh Patel during his trip to Sabarmati Ashram.
"It is an immense privilege to come to the Ashram of this extraordinary man, and to understand how he mobilised such simple principles of truth and non-violence to change the world for the better," he wrote in the visitor’s book as the ashram.
In a tweet, Johnson said he was honoured to visit the Gandhi Ashram.
I was honoured to follow in the footsteps of millions in visiting the Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad today.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 21, 2022
As the world faces renewed conflict, Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings remind us of the power of peace in changing the course of history. pic.twitter.com/c8cnZM0taR
During his two-day visit to India, Johnson will focus on stepping up cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, giving momentum to negotiations on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries as well as enhancing defence ties.
“It’s fantastic to be in India, the world’s largest democracy. I see vast possibilities for what our great nations can achieve together. Our powerhouse partnership is delivering jobs, growth and opportunity. I look forward to strengthening this partnership in the coming days,” he tweeted after arrival.
After the visit to Sabarmati Ashram, he met business tycoon and Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani.
Johnson will announce a slew of commercial agreements and hold bilateral discussions with a focus on the UK and India's trade, investment and technology partnership.
The British High Commission (BHC), in a statement, said Johnson will use his visit to India to boost "our collaboration with one of the world's fastest-growing economies, slashing trade barriers for UK businesses and driving jobs and growth at home".