Hyderabad, May 19 (IANS): Tech giant Apple's CEO Tim Cook on Thursday described India as an unparalleled country and said he liked the vibrancy of its people and has made some lifelong friends.

Speaking at the inauguration of Apple's map development centre here, Cook said he loved the informality in the city of Hyderabad. "I liked the culture and learned a lot," he said.

Cook, who flew in from Mumbai to launch the facility, termed Hyderabad's culture and history as "lovely".

"We (are) honoured to be here for lifelong friendship with Telangana," Cook said.

The Apple CEO said Apple created best products to the betterment of people's life.

Telangana IT Minister K.T. Rama Rao requested Cook to open Apple's own campus in Hyderabad.

He said the state would like to be a partner in Apple's growth story.

The minister said that Hyderabad is the best city in India in terms of infrastructure, education and ecosystem. During last 24 months, the city has attracted some big names and investment.