Eminent Indian statesman delivers high-profile talk at Birmingham

One of India’s most eminent political and diplomatic figures will deliver a high-profile lecture on the future of UK-India relations at the University of Birmingham. 

Dr Ashwani Kumar’s lecture on Tuesday, 18 October 2016 will focus on complimentary objectives and interests between the UK and India, as well as the need for a common resolve to meet challenges to freedom and democracy throughout the world. 

A distinguished lawyer, parliamentarian, author and speaker, Dr Kumar - pictured above - has represented India at the highest forums of politics and diplomacy. 

A few places are still available for the lecture, which is presented in partnership with the University of Nottingham. Further information on attending the event can be found at http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/forms/events/AshwaniKumar.aspx

Professor Robin Mason, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) at the University of Birmingham, said: “We are delighted to welcome Dr Kumar to the University of Birmingham. As one of India’s most eminent political and diplomatic figures, Dr Kumar is perfectly placed to comment on the future of UK-India relations and we look forward to gaining his fascinating insights. 

“As a civic university with a global outlook, we are pleased to work in partnership with the University of Nottingham to give people in the UK this unique opportunity to listen to and ask questions of an influential and distinguished thought leader.”

Dr Kumar was the youngest designated Senior Counsel of the Supreme Court of India and one of the youngest Additional Solicitors General of India. He represented the State of Punjab in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) for an uninterrupted period of 14 years.

He served in the Union Government as Minister of State in the Departments of Industrial Policy & Planning, Parliamentary Affairs, Planning, Science, Technology and Earth Sciences. He later served as the Cabinet Minister for Law & Justice in the UPA II in 2013.

Since retiring from the Upper House of Indian Parliament Dr Kumar has resumed active practice of Law as a Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India. 

Notes to Editors 

• The University of Birmingham is ranked amongst the world’s top 100 institutions, its work brings people from across the world to Birmingham, including researchers and teachers and more than 5,000 international students from over 150 countries.
• Dr Ashwani Kumar’s lecture ‘UK-India Engagement: Partnership for the future’ will be held on Tuesday 18 October 2016 Refreshments served from 5.00pm, lecture from 5.45 until 6.45pm at University House.

For more information, please contact Tony Moran, International Communications Manager, University of Birmingham on +44 (0) 121 414 8254 or  +44 (0)782 783 2312. For out-of-hours enquiries, please call +44 (0) 7789 921 165.