India and U.K. Commit to Strengthen Ties Through Free Trade Agreement and New Technology Initiative

India and U.K. Commit to Strengthen Ties Through Free Trade Agreement and New Technology Initiative

New Delhi, July 25, 2024 - In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to finalizing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom. The announcement came after a meeting with the U.K.'s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy, in New Delhi on July 24, 2024.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations, highlighting the mutual benefits of a strong bilateral relationship. "I appreciate the priority accorded by PM Keir Starmer to broaden and deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Remain committed to elevating the ties. Welcome the bilateral Technology Security Initiative and the desire to conclude a mutually beneficial FTA," said Mr. Modi.

The visit marks the highest-level engagement between India and the U.K. since the Labour Party's recent landslide victory in the U.K. elections. A key outcome of the meeting was the launch of the U.K.-India Technology Security Initiative, which aims to address emerging security challenges and explore new investment opportunities. The initiative builds on previous telecom agreements and is spearheaded by the National Security Advisors of both countries.

David Lammy, expressing optimism about the ongoing negotiations, stated, "The India-UK FTA negotiations are the floor, not the ceiling of our ambitions." He highlighted the "unique living bridge" that connects India and the U.K., underscoring the shared history and cultural ties between the two nations.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who hosted Mr. Lammy for a round of talks, emphasized the need for collaboration on global issues, particularly climate action. "We are both countries which have a big global presence in different ways. So I think it’s also important India and the U.K. work together on global issues and in global platforms," said Mr. Jaishankar.

The discussions also touched on the broader strategic relationship, with both sides expressing a commitment to leveraging their partnership to address global challenges. The meeting signals a renewed focus on advancing the FTA, which has been under negotiation for several years, as well as enhancing cooperation in technology and climate action.