On February 23, Ahmedabad (NationPress) is making significant strides in its preparations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Senior officials from Gujarat and the United Kingdom convened at the 'Commonwealth Connect Forum' to delineate key economic, infrastructural, and diplomatic strategies for hosting this milestone edition of the Games.

The forum, hosted at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex on Monday, gathered representatives from the Gujarat government, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), West Midlands Combined Authority, India Global Forum, as well as sports leaders and business executives to discuss collaborative efforts in infrastructure, sports economy, education, and investment.

During the event, Ahmedabad's Mayor Pratibha Jain emphasized the city's commitment to enhancing international relations leading up to 2030.

“Ahmedabad's selection for the Commonwealth Games is a source of great pride for our city, following the General Assembly in Glasgow last November,” she stated.

She welcomed the West Midlands delegation led by Mayor Richard Parker, affirming, “With the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Ahmedabad is making continuous advancements in sports and modern infrastructure.”

Jain also noted the successful organization of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, highlighting, “Our city has showcased its global capabilities.”

She referenced the establishment of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Motera and the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex, along with metro expansion, electric bus services, and improved rail and airport connectivity.

“The Commonwealth Games transcend mere sports; they embody a platform uniting nations under the ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’” she said.

Municipal Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani described Ahmedabad as a “unique blend of historical richness and contemporary growth.”

He noted that the city was recognized as the cleanest in India during Swachh Survekshan 2025, stating, “Ahmedabad is the only South Asian city to meet eight of the nine criteria under the Climate Cities Framework.”

Pani revealed that 84% of the AMC budget is dedicated to initiatives promoting climate resilience and highlighted that, due to the urban planning framework initiated in 1925, “100% of the city area is under planned development.”

Regarding the 2030 preparations, he asserted, “Advancements in smart mobility, sustainable infrastructure, stadium technology, digital governance, and legacy planning will enhance UK–India collaboration.”

Richard Parker characterized the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games as “a transformative moment” for the West Midlands, noting, “The Games generated over £1.2 billion for the UK economy, created more than 22,000 jobs, and sold over 1.5 million tickets, all completed on time and under budget.”

Stressing the importance of legacy, he remarked, “The real impact lies in the confidence instilled among volunteers, young athletes, and communities.”

Parker expressed his commitment to collaborating with Ahmedabad, stating, “We are dedicated to working alongside you as partners towards 2030.”

Manoj Ladwa, Chairman and CEO of the India Global Forum, remarked, “Gujarat is not just preparing for the future; it is rebuilding it, placing sports at the forefront of India’s national ascent.”

He emphasized the state’s economic robustness, noting that Gujarat contributes approximately 8% to India’s GDP and 20% of its exports.

“It is crucial that we transition from dialogue to action to ensure the global visibility from 2030 translates into structured, long-term economic advantages,” he added.

The forum included thematic discussions on sports diplomacy, infrastructure, financing, investment, and legacy development, attended by business leaders, vice-chancellors, and sports representatives from both the UK and India.