THE FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL 2006 18 - 20 August 2006 ExCel One Western Gateway Royal Victoria Dock London E16 1XL Tel: 020 7069 5000 www.excel-london.co.uk

Events organiser Vijay Saggar is to celebrate the bonds between British Asians - India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal - with a three-day 'Friendship Festival' at ExCel, London from 18 - 20 August 2006. The impetus to organise such a unique event has been inspired by the vast and colourful contrasts of these countries cultural and social beliefs.

This festival will provide the opportunity to show-off speciality wares from health and beauty to education and business, from travel and home to entertainment with stars from Bollywood and Lollywood performing. The live and interactive cookery theatre will treat visitors to sumptuous and delectable cuisines from regions of Pakistan and North and South India.

Outdoor games and activities throughout the three days will include a floating green for practising golfers, B.B.Q's and water sports. The festival will feature four daily stunning fashion catwalks, amalgamating the eclectic and vibrant cuts and styles with saris from India right through to elegant shalwar kameezs from Pakistan all combined with spectacular choreographed performances.

With over 35 years of experience under his belt, Vijay Saggar has his role cut out for him. He says "The Friendship Festival has two main objectives - Firstly, to celebrate the cultural richness and friendship of India , Pakistan , Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal. Secondly, to encourage small businesses by providing them with the unique opportunity to showcase their products & services to a high number of consumers under one mammoth roof by offering them free stand space. Until today, exhibition stand rent has discouraged small businesses from participating in such events. Above all though, this is a community event that is organised by the people for the people."

The Pakistan India Friendship Forum also supports the show, and its Chairman Dr. Rami Ranger comments: "The Pakistan India Friendship Forum aims to build bridges between India and Pakistan and also supports worthy charitable causes. We believe that better trade ties between these two nations will remove suspicions amongst them that have existed since their independence. When we start trading goods, we stop trading bullets."