Ahmedabad, Feb 22 (NationPress) The city is preparing to host the Commonwealth Connect Forum on February 23 at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex, representing a pivotal advancement in the city's preparations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games by fostering long-term economic collaborations.

This Forum is being organized by the India Global Forum (IGF) in partnership with the Gujarat government and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC).

Designed as a structured economic initiative rather than merely a ceremonial gathering, the Commonwealth Connect Forum aims to leverage the global exposure provided by the Games to attract investment, establish trade routes, and forge institutional partnerships.

The Forum aligns with a visit from a high-ranking UK delegation led by Richard Parker, the Mayor of the West Midlands, scheduled for February 22-23.

This delegation comprises senior figures from sectors such as advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, sports infrastructure design, urban regeneration, clean energy, green mobility, financial services, and university-led research and skill development partnerships.

Participating organizations include companies involved in the Birmingham 2022 delivery program, advanced engineering SMEs, innovation clusters linked to automotive electrification, sports technology firms, and financial institutions focused on cross-border capital flows.

The delegation's itinerary includes Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with discussions centered on infrastructure delivery, capital mobilization, artificial intelligence, future skills, and financial market connectivity.

Manoj Ladwa, the Founder and Chairman of India Global Forum, emphasized that this is not merely about hosting an event; it is about repositioning the state. He stated, “When Ahmedabad hosts the Commonwealth Games, it is more than just constructing venues; it is about recalibrating how global capital, investors, and governments perceive Gujarat. Perception drives investment, and confidence fuels capital.”

He further noted: “The Commonwealth is not a mere historical association. It operates as a growth network encompassing 56 nations, 2.7 billion individuals, and a combined GDP exceeding $13 trillion, with nearly 60% of its population under 30. In a fragmented global landscape, trusted networks are invaluable. Commonwealth Connect is focused on activating that network to ensure that Gujarat capitalizes on this visibility for structured economic benefits.”

The AMC Commissioner, Banchhanidhi Pani, stated: “Ahmedabad’s strategy for the 2030 Commonwealth Games is rooted in long-term urban revitalization. Our objectives extend beyond sporting excellence to include integrated infrastructure, sustainable mobility, civic modernization, and global partnerships. By collaborating with the India Global Forum and the Smarter Regions Programme, we are positioning Ahmedabad not just as a host city, but as a competitive global urban center capable of delivering a lasting economic and social legacy.”

The Forum also capitalizes on Gujarat's rich history of outward-looking engagement, building upon centuries of commercial connections through its diaspora in regions such as East Africa, the Gulf, and the United Kingdom.

Commonwealth Connect aims to transform these trust-based networks into dynamic trade and investment partnerships.

During the delegation's visit, strategic briefings will involve the Gujarat government, including a visit to GIFT City to explore collaborations in financial services and fintech, with sector-focused discussions on advanced manufacturing, smart infrastructure, and education.

Desired outcomes from the Forum consist of expanding Gujarat-based brands into Commonwealth markets, attracting new investments from global firms, forging clean energy and fintech partnerships, mobilizing capital across Commonwealth corridors, and enhancing South–South collaboration platforms.