India and the United Kingdom on Thursday agreed to set up an India-UK CEOs Forum and an India-UK Infrastructure Group besides working to double up bilateral trade in five years.

Speaking during a joint press meet in the national capital, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said: "We have decided to constitute an India-UK CEOs Forum and an India-UK Infrastructure Group. We will work towards doubling our trade in five years. Building upon past experience, we have also agreed to launch a new phase of the UK-India Education and Research Initiative. We will intensify bilateral exchanges at all levels."

Describing India and the United Kingdom as "natural partners for shaping a better world", Dr. Singh said: " If we join hands together, we can make a meaningful contribution to addressing the challenges of poverty and development, reform of global institutions, terrorism and climate change."

Dr. Singh said that Prime Minister Cameron has a distinguished political career and he brings with him the finest qualities of leadership and a bold vision for Britain and a better and safer world.

Stating that Cameron's presence in India, so soon after his election victory in May this year, indicates the strength of the bonds that tie India and the United Kingdom, Dr. Singh said: "It also demonstrates the Prime Minister's strong personal commitment to take our partnership to an even higher level of understanding and purpose." (ANI)