'India is compelling example for Commonwealth'

LONDON: India is a compelling example for the Commonwealth nations on issues of human rights and democracy, Canada's special envoy for the 54-member grouping has said.

Describing India as a "powerful, significant and important player in the Commonwealth," Senator Hugh Segal, Canada's special envoy for Commonwealth renewal, said, "We believe that both on issues of human rights and democracy India is a compelling example for the rest of the Commonwealth."

He said "India's presence is fundamental. India's influence around the world is increasing because of the power of its economy, remarkable exports in terms of trade and technology and skills sets. It is one of the fundamental pyramids of the Commonwealth and fundamental to its survival and success."

"Canada has always viewed India as an important bilateral ally and we see them as partners in efforts to modernise the Commonwealth and make it as effective in people's lives as humanly possible.

"India has been a partner of growing significance. It has invested in the Commonwealth. It has been very active on issues like Commonwealth scholarships and technical assistance."

He said aid from India to other Commonwealth countries has been a great value and importance and "we believe that the interest India has taken for championing human rights and other issues as it relates to Sri Lanka is a very constructive force."

"A constructive force of engagement and we respect Indian participation and contribution. We also feel India can do even more."