New Delhi: Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, arrived on October 28 on a nine-day visit to India, during which he would meet President A P J Abdul Kalam and Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and interact with several voluntary organisations.

The Prince, who is visiting India after 11 years, flew in to New Delhi by a special aircraft and was received at the airport by senior External Affairs Ministry officials and British diplomats.

On the eve of his visit, he had said it gave him "great joy" to be returning to the "remarkable" country, for which he has always had a "particular affection". He would also visit Rajasthan for four days and Mumbai for two days.

"As a great admirer of India's rich history and architectural treasures, not to mention her religious and cultural traditions, I am very keen to highlight the important restoration and conservation work being carried out to protect this unique heritage," he said, adding he was also keen to see some of the latest developments in India.

After a courtesy call on Kalam and Shekhawat on October 29, Prince Charles will meet young Indian entrepreneurs and members of the consultative panel on youth entrepreneurship and employment. He is also scheduled to meet leader of the Opposition Sonia Gandhi on October 30.

PTI