New Delhi: In a significant step towards bolstering bilateral relations, H.E. Mr. David Lammy MP, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, United Kingdom, paid his first official visit to India. The visit, at the invitation of India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to deepen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
During his visit, Foreign Secretary Lammy met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held extensive discussions with Shri Ajit Doval, India’s National Security Adviser. The talks focused on a wide range of bilateral and global issues, reflecting the multifaceted nature of India-UK relations.
Dr. Jaishankar and Mr. Lammy conducted bilateral consultations, reviewing the progress of the Roadmap 2030, an ambitious plan for strengthening ties between the two nations. Originally agreed upon during the India-UK Virtual Summit in 2021, the Roadmap 2030 outlines a comprehensive framework for cooperation across key sectors. Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far and committed to renewing the roadmap to reflect contemporary realities and higher ambitions for bilateral cooperation.
A key highlight of the visit was the launch of the UK–India Technology Security Initiative (TSI). This initiative, agreed upon by the National Security Advisors of both countries, aims to expand collaboration in critical and emerging technologies (CET) across priority sectors, including Telecom, Critical Minerals, Semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technologies, Biotech, and Advanced Materials. The TSI will involve government bodies, the private sector, academia, and research and development institutions, fostering a holistic approach to innovation and security.
The launch was accompanied by the release of a Fact Sheet, which provides detailed guidance for stakeholders in industry and academia, outlining specific technologies and areas of cooperation.
In addition to technology, both sides discussed the substantial progress in negotiations for the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). They expressed optimism for an early conclusion of the FTA, aiming for a mutually beneficial agreement that would enhance trade and investment between the two countries.
The discussions also covered defence and security cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries agreed to deepen their partnership to address emerging security threats, including those from non-state actors.
Climate and green economy cooperation were also high on the agenda. The ministers agreed to explore new areas of collaboration, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and climate action.
The visit provided an opportunity for both sides to discuss regional and global issues, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the situation in West Asia and the Red Sea, and matters concerning the Commonwealth and the United Nations Security Council.
This visit by Mr. Lammy comes shortly after the formation of a new government in the UK, underscoring the commitment of both nations to strengthening and diversifying their strategic partnership. The discussions and agreements reached during this visit are expected to lay a strong foundation for future collaboration, marking a new chapter in India-UK relations.