EAM Jaishankar's Trip to the UK Boosts Strategic Alliance: MEA
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Synopsis
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's recent visit to the UK has revitalized the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, enhancing political and economic collaboration, according to the MEA. Significant discussions with UK officials focused on trade, technology, and global issues.
Key Takeaways
- Revitalization of India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
- Resumption of Free Trade Agreement negotiations.
- Strengthened technology cooperation.
- Inauguration of new Indian consulates in Belfast and Manchester.
- Focus on talent mobility and combating extremism.
New Delhi, March 10 (NationPress) The visit of External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar to the United Kingdom last week has revitalized the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday.
EAM Jaishankar's official trip to the UK took place from March 4-9 at the invitation of UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and he also visited Ireland on March 6-7.
During his stay, Jaishankar met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, while also engaging in extensive discussions with his counterpart Lammy, Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds, and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. The EAM also interacted with key figures from the government, business sector, academia, and the Indian diaspora.
The MEA's statement on Monday highlighted, "The visit reaffirmed the strong bonds between India and the UK, injecting new vitality into the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. It emphasized both nations' commitment to enhancing political, economic, and cultural relations in an evolving global context."
In his discussions with Starmer, the EAM relayed the warm wishes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as both leaders acknowledged the positive progress in India-UK relations, particularly with the resumption of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) discussions. They also noted the advancements in technology cooperation and the deepening of people-to-people connections, while addressing significant global issues, including the Ukraine conflict, as detailed by the MEA.
Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Lammy conducted detailed discussions at Chevening House that encompassed the entirety of India-UK relations, including strategic coordination, political collaboration, trade negotiations, education, technology, mobility, and cultural exchanges.
"They evaluated the progress of the new Roadmap 2.0 currently under discussion, which aims to inject fresh energy and momentum into the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They also shared insights on regional and global developments, including the Ukraine conflict, West Asia, Bangladesh, and the Commonwealth," the MEA stated.
The meeting between EAM and the Secretary of State for Business and Trade focused on the advancement of India-UK FTA negotiations, with both parties reaffirming their dedication to boosting trade and investment opportunities while emphasizing the necessity of reducing trade barriers and increasing market access.
In his conversation with the Home Secretary, EAM Jaishankar addressed the enhancement of bilateral cooperation on talent mobility, cultural exchanges, and joint initiatives to combat trafficking and extremism.
The EAM raised concerns regarding the safety and security of Indian Missions/Posts and diplomats, calling for swift action to bring to justice those responsible for attacks on the premises of HCI London. He also stressed the importance of tackling the rising concerns over the growing anti-India activities of PKE elements, as highlighted by the MEA statement.
During his visit, EAM Jaishankar inaugurated the Consulate General of India in Belfast, Northern Ireland, which was attended by several esteemed local dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly Edwin Poots, Minister Fleur Anderson, Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Micky Murray, and India's Honorary Consul Lord Diljit Rana. This opening marks a significant advancement in strengthening India's presence in Northern Ireland, facilitating improved trade, business, technology, and educational linkages.
The EAM also met with Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland Emma Little-Pengelly and Junior Minister Aisling Reilly at Stormont Castle, where they examined opportunities for enhanced collaboration in critical areas such as skills development, cybersecurity, technology, creative industries, and manufacturing.
At Queen's University in Belfast, EAM Jaishankar emphasized the significance of their forthcoming campus in GIFT City, Gujarat, as a symbol of the growing India-UK partnership in higher education. He also engaged with Indian students currently studying at Queen’s University, discussing their experiences and aspirations.
Additionally, EAM inaugurated the Consulate General of India in Manchester, marking the fourth Indian Consulate in the UK, fulfilling a long-standing demand from the Indian diaspora and enhancing India’s diplomatic outreach in Northern England. The inauguration was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, FCDO Minister for Indo-Pacific Catherine West, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester Paul Dennett, and MP of Stockport Navendu Mishra.
"There was considerable enthusiasm that the new Consulate would foster trade, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people ties, including in the sports sector. During his meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister, EAM acknowledged her support in establishing the Manchester Consulate. He also interacted with members of the Indian community and business leaders at Old Trafford," the MEA statement concluded.
