EAM Jaishankar: Addressing Past Oversights in India's Diplomacy
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Synopsis
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated a new Indian Consulate in Manchester, emphasizing the importance of rectifying earlier diplomatic oversights and enhancing India-UK relations.
Key Takeaways
- Inauguration of new Consulate in Manchester signifies India's commitment to its diaspora.
- Free Trade Agreement with the UK is a priority.
- Women's empowerment is central to India's policy, reflected in the consulate's opening date.
- Strengthening bilateral ties through culture, trade, and technology.
- Indian community's role in enhancing India-UK relations.
Manchester, United Kingdom, March 9 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated a new Consulate General of India in Manchester and stated that India is addressing several matters that it could have tackled earlier.
He highlighted that the inauguration of the Consulate in Manchester symbolizes the significance of the expanding diaspora in the area and is indicative of future developments, such as an India-UK Free Trade Agreement.
The EAM noted the appropriateness of Vishakha Yaduvanshi assuming her position as India's newest Consul General on International Women’s Day, showcasing the government's commitment to prioritizing women's issues in policymaking.
In an interview with IANS at the event, EAM Jaishankar remarked, “It is incredibly fitting for a Consul General to open her consulate on this day. We not only timed it well; we got the day absolutely right. This occasion reflects our past—we are rectifying many things that perhaps we could and should have done earlier...”
He added, “I can already observe that Manchester has a significant investment in India and vice versa. The trade with this region is approximately 700 million pounds, with over 300 Indian firms present here...”
The EAM continued, “Reflecting upon where our approach has led us, just a couple of years ago, we held the G20 presidency, launching various initiatives during a particularly challenging time. The world was deeply polarized, with nations reluctant to collaborate. Among our achievements was securing the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20, but one of our proudest moments was the adoption of the concept of women-led development by the G20...”
On social media platform X, the EAM expressed: “I am delighted to open our 4th Consulate in the UK, in Manchester. Thanks to Deputy PM @AngelaRayner, Minister @CatherineWest1, Deputy Mayor Paul Dennett, and MP @NavPMishra for joining us.”
In another post, EAM Jaishankar mentioned: “It was great meeting Deputy PM @AngelaRayner today in Manchester. Her support has been pivotal in establishing our Consulate. We also discussed India-UK bilateral relations and our endeavors to enhance trade and people-to-people exchanges. This step fulfills the long-standing aspirations of our community and supporters of India in Manchester. I am confident that this new addition to our UK presence will strengthen cultural, trade, and cricket ties.”
Following the official inauguration of the consulate building in Stockport, Greater Manchester, a celebratory reception for the diaspora was held at Old Trafford stadium, where he engaged with members of the Lancashire Cricket Club women's team prior to their pre-season tour to Bengaluru next week.
The EAM stated, “My first formal visit to Manchester acknowledges how much our relationship has evolved over the past four decades. However, I emphasize that this serves as preparation for what lies ahead—a much stronger partnership between India and the United Kingdom. Clearly, the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is central to this in the near future.”
He elaborated, “We view the Free Trade Agreement not merely as a trade or investment understanding, but as a transformative game changer—a symbolic shift towards a more elevated relationship.”
The Union Minister expressed his desire to “applaud” the Indian community's role in strengthening India-UK relations and asserted that he envisions the new Consulate as a precursor to a significant enhancement of bilateral ties.
He added, “My message to you today is that this is not just an office we have opened; it is an investment in our relationship, which holds great promise. It reflects our commitment to serving the community more effectively.”
He emphasized, “We hope it becomes a focal point for connecting India and Manchester and the Greater Manchester area more profoundly. We certainly expect it to stimulate increased trade, investment, education, and technology activities. Most importantly, we recognize it as a vital step toward a deeper partnership with the United Kingdom.”
The EAM was accompanied at the inauguration by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Foreign Office Minister responsible for the Indo-Pacific, Catherine West.
Rayner remarked, “Our connections have a long history with our businesses, communities, and celebrations; everything Mancunian is also Indian, and we take immense pride in that.”
She noted, “This is a fantastic moment for Manchester, and I am proud to serve as a member of parliament here. It signifies so much about our two nations as allies, friends, and partners through generations. The Indian community has significantly contributed to our great city, and together we are discovering new ways to strengthen our relationship.”
Minister Catherine West also welcomed this “crucial milestone” in bilateral relations, stating, “At the heart of any Consulate are its services, and we hope this building serves people well, creating a true home for the living bridge.”
The Manchester inauguration followed EAM Jaishankar's opening of a Consulate in Belfast during his visit to Northern Ireland the day prior.
He remarked, “We recognize the economic potential, but we also desire it to serve the Indian community.”
The establishment of these two new Consulate Generals of India concludes EAM Jaishankar's two-nation tour covering the UK and Ireland, which commenced in London on Tuesday.
