London: A memorial for millions of Asians, including Indians, who fought for Britain in the two World Wars was on November 6 inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II.

Inaugurating the 2.7 million-Pound Memorial Gates on the Constitution Hill in Central London, the Queen described it as a "fitting tribute to the magnificient contribution made by men and women from the Indian sub- continent to the Britain in two World Wars".

Originally, two members of the President's guard from India were to accompany the Queen along with two Pakistani guards for opening of the memorial. But owing to logistic problems, the Indian guards were not able to make it.

After the brief ceremony held in cloudy weather, the Queen met the veterans of the two Wars including Indian Umrao Singh who received Victoria Cross for action in Burma and specially flew in from India.

Baroness Shreela Flather, chairperson of the memorial trust, said that these gates were "symbol of shared sacrifices, mutual respect and understanding of the Asians and the British people".

The memorial occupies the space 300 cubic metres making it unique on the Constitution Hill. It has pillars topped with bronze and at the side is domed pavilion with names of Victoria Cross and George Cross holders, highest awards given to military personnel.

An African writer speaking on the occasion saluted the Queen for not forgetting the sacrifices made by "brave soldiers from Asia and Africa" during the two World Wars.

PTI