New York: Observing that India is making remarkable progress, leading London-based NRI industrialist Lord Swraj Paul has said that if it continued to do so, it would emerge as a developed nation on the strength of its economic progress as also its Human Rights record.

"India is a huge and prosperous market with a strong democracy, which the recent elections have proved. It is making remarkable progress and if it continues to do so then it will start to be counted among the developed nations of the world - not just for its economic progress, especially in the world of IT, but for its Human Rights record and its commitment to bettering the living conditions for all its citizens," he said.

Speaking at the European Union Studies Centre at the City University of New York last night, Lord Paul, who is also British Ambassador for Overseas Business said, "The UK is engaged in expanding relationships with the emerging countries - especially democracies like India with which the UK has a special relationship.

Lord Paul said, "Britain has gained a great deal from its multiculturalism and diversity, and especially the input by the Asian community.

"You are seeing this more and more in the United States also, especially the contribution that the Indian community has made to the IT industry. The Asian population has contributed enormously to both our countries and it is something we share."