Overview
Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Dr S. Jaishankar landed in London for a five-day official trip, marking the commencement of his visit to the UK. The objective is to assess diverse facets of the bilateral relationship and inject fresh momentum into the amicable ties between the two countries. Here are some key takeaways from what has happened so far.
EAM Dr S. Jaishankar’s meeting with UK PM Rishi Sunak on Diwali
External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar met UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in London on Sunday, November 12. Sharing his excitement, Mr Jaishankar expressed on X, “Delighted to call on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Diwali Day. Conveyed the best wishes of PM Narendra Modi,” along with sharing photos of the meeting with Mr Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murthy. EAM also gifted Sunak a cricket bat with an autograph of Virat Kohli on it and a Lord Ganesh statue.
In a reflective note, Dr Jaishankar highlighted that India and the UK are actively reshaping their relationship to align with contemporary times. The visit gains significance as both countries are amid discussions on a Free Trade Agreement, currently a focal point in their strategic ties. Beyond trade, the discussions extended to pressing matters such as India’s concerns about Khalistani activity in the UK and the potential visit of Mr Sunak to India.
Diwali Devotion at BAPS Mandir
S. Jaishankar and his wife, Kyoko Jaishankar, visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London on Sunday, November 12, 2023, to celebrate Diwali with British Hindus and the Indian diaspora.
During their visit, Dr Jaishankar and his wife performed the abhishek of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj, the teenage form of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, before addressing the assembly in the prayer hall.
In his speech, Dr Jaishankar echoed the contributions of the Indian diaspora, noting that a significant portion of India’s image is shaped not only by events within the country but also by the daily actions of each member of the diaspora—in their work, living, neighbourhood, and activities. He expressed gratitude, stating that the Indian community abroad constitutes the true strength of India. The EAM thanked everyone for their daily efforts, emphasising that these actions define India. He felt blessed to be present with the community on that day.
Diplomatic Conversation with Tony Blair
On November 13, Dr S. Jaishankar met with former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, focusing on the bilateral relations between India and the UK. The discussions between the two leaders also extended to the current situations in West Asia and Africa.
Addressing the meeting, EAM said, “It was nice catching up with former UK PM Tony Blair this morning. We discussed our bilateral ties, the situation in West Asia, and Africa.”
First Diplomatic Meeting with David Cameron
EAM S. Jaishankar became the first overseas guest to meet David Cameron, the former British Prime Minister who recently assumed the role of the new foreign secretary on Monday. Dr Jaishankar congratulated him on his appointment during their meeting.
On X, Dr Jaishankar conveyed that meeting UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron that afternoon on his first day in office was a pleasure. He congratulated him on his appointment and engaged in a detailed discussion on realising the full potential of their strategic partnership. Additionally, they exchanged views on the situation in West Asia, the Ukraine conflict, and the Indo-Pacific. Jaishankar expressed his anticipation of working closely with him.
Defense Dialogue with UK Secretary Grant Shapps
Later that afternoon, Dr Jaishankar met the UK Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps. Jaishankar conveyed a positive interaction with the UK Defence Secretary that afternoon. They discussed enhancing defence and security cooperation between the two countries, noting that #MakeinIndia provides new opportunities for British partners. Additionally, perspectives on global security challenges and convergences in their approaches were shared.
Meetings with UK Home Secretary
Later in the evening, EAM also met UK Home Secretary James Cleverly at the High Commissioner’s reception. The discussions revolved around the significance of mobility, skills, and talent in developing bilateral cooperation. Views were exchanged on addressing shared concerns related to extremism, economic offences, trafficking, and security. Jaishankar expressed appreciation for James Cleverly’s continued support for their strategic partnership.
Addressing the Indian Community at the Diwali reception in London
At a Diwali reception in London, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed optimism about finding a mutually beneficial “landing point” for the Free Trade Agreement between India and the UK. He emphasised that the FTA is a focal point of ongoing negotiations between the two countries.
Dr Jaishankar highlighted efforts to reframe the India-UK relationship, emphasising the ‘Agenda 2030’ and the ‘Roadmap to 2023,’ announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson in May 2021. The roadmap aims to elevate the partnership across various domains, including connectivity, defence, health, trade, and climate action.
Dr Jaishankar noted the clear convergence of Indian and British interests on multiple issues, expressing that increased collaboration brings greater comfort. He credited the UK and the US for supporting India’s successful hosting of the G-20 Summit. He cited joint efforts on vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
India’s High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, and Tariq Ahmad, Minister of State at the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), were also at the reception.
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