“Canada and India have a romantic association with its shared history with Britain. Rajiv was one of the prime movers against apartheid in South Africa, and we were all part of the same committee, including Robert Mugabe, Bob Hawke and Margaret Thatcher. Thatcher didn’t agree with sanctions, but Rajiv fought her fiercely, he was terrific.’’

Mulroney is chairman of the board. “The new global thrust is on harmonisation, from finance to law practices. The media too is a highly competent business, and I’m loving it,’’ he says

While poor 007 has been stricken with Delhi Belly and laid up in bed in his hotel room for two days, the board is having its meetings at a Raj nostalgia restaurant in the hotel.

Emerging from the restaurant, David Dinkins is ready for an afternoon nap. Dinkins, who had defeated Rudolph (Rudy) Giuliani to become Mayor from 1989-93, is credited for bringing the first inclusive people’s initiative to fight crime on the streets of New York.

Dinkins says he disagrees with Giuliani’s zero-tolerance policy on crime. “I believe in being tough and fair.’’