India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, has hailed the recent free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the United Kingdom as a major milestone. Speaking during his meeting with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy in New Delhi, Dr. Jaishankar emphasized how this agreement would strengthen trade, investment, and other strategic aspects of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
A Milestone Agreement for Trade and Strategic Ties
Dr. Jaishankar described the newly concluded FTA as a significant achievement, noting that it will enhance two-way trade and investment. Beyond economic benefits, the agreement is expected to have positive effects on other strategic areas of cooperation between India and the UK. According to Dr. Jaishankar, it will contribute to the strengthening of supply and value chains, further deepening bilateral ties.
Strong UK Support Against Terrorism
In his discussions with Foreign Secretary Lammy, Dr. Jaishankar also expressed his gratitude to the UK government for its strong condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. He acknowledged the UK’s support in India’s ongoing fight against terrorism. India’s stance of zero tolerance towards terrorism was reiterated, with Dr. Jaishankar stressing the importance of this policy being understood and supported by global partners.
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement marks a significant step forward in their bilateral relationship, with potential benefits extending beyond trade to broader strategic areas. Dr. Jaishankar’s meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Lammy also highlighted the strengthening of cooperation in the fight against terrorism, reinforcing the shared commitment to global security.
