Dave Thompson MSP

Highlands and Islands SNP MSP, Dave Thompson, has welcomed the first visit to the Highlands of Mrs. Monika Mohta, the Culture Minister of the Indian High Commission, and Mr. Anil Anand, the new Indian Consul General for Scotland.

Commenting Dave said; "It is a great honour to welcome the Culture Minister and the new Consul General, on their first ever visit to the Highlands. I hope they enjoy their stay and look forward to offering them a taste of traditional Highland hospitality. This visit is a tremendous coup for the Highlands, and will help to strengthen our links with India, one of the world's fastest growing economies."

The high ranking diplomatic delegation will attend a civic reception in Inverness town house tonight, where they will be welcomed by Mr Thompson and Inverness provost Jimmy Gray. Local musicians, Bruce Macgregor and Lisa Mulholland, will also be present to entertain the guests as will Glasgow based Asian –Scottish fusion group, Desi Fusion.

On Wednesday the diplomats will visit the new BBC Scotland HQ and studios in Inverness before heading to Ross-shire, where they will visit the Dalmore Distillery.