On Tuesday evening, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street. S Jaishankar is on a six-day visit to the UK and Ireland.
Bilateral Ties and Strategic Talks
External Affairs Minister conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed several aspects of India-UK cooperation. Jaishankar posted on social media, “We discussed taking forward our bilateral and economic cooperation and enhancing people-to-people exchanges. PM Starmer also shared the UK’s perspective on the Ukraine conflict”.
Progress on India-UK FTA Talks
Jaishankar on Tuesday held a series of meetings with top UK ministers, including Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, to look after the progress of the much-anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Last month, the two countries had officially relaunched talk during Reynolds’ visit to Delhi, aiming to boost their annual bilateral trade, which currently stands at GBP 41 billion.
Security, Extremism, and People-to-People Exchanges
The External Affairs Minister also met UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to discuss on several topics such as migration, talent mobility, and joint efforts to curb extremism. S Jaishankar said, “We discussed the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, and joint efforts in tackling trafficking and extremism”.
Chatham House Session on India’s Global Role
Jaishankar will speak at the Chatham House think tank on Tuesday in London on “India’s Rise and Role in the World.” His address is expected to outline India’s foreign policy approach and its growing global influence.
Ireland Visit and New Indian Consulates in UK
On Thursday, Jaishankar will travel to Dublin where he will meet Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris and members of the Indian community in Ireland. The Ministry of External Affairs stated, “India and Ireland share friendly bilateral relations based on shared democratic values, cultural ties, and growing economic engagements”.
Diaspora Event on Women’s Day
A diaspora event is planned at Manchester’s Old Trafford stadium on International Women’s Day on March 8. The event is expected to highlight the contributions of Indian women in the UK and strengthen India-UK community ties.
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