UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy Strengthens Ties with India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy discussed strengthening UK-India relations, focusing on economic, domestic, and global security. Lammy affirmed commitment to a Free Trade Agreement for growth and highlighted the UK's 'Living Bridge' with India. Lammy's visit marks the first high-level diplomatic engagement under PM Keir Starmer.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with UK Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs David Lammy on Wednesday, reaffirming his dedication to bolstering India-UK relations. 'A pleasure to meet UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Appreciate Prime Minister Keir Starmer's priority to deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,' Modi posted on platform X.

Previously, Lammy met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi, underlining the commitment to strengthening ties. 'We welcome the bilateral Technology Security Initiative and aim to finalize a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA),' Lammy noted. His visit marks the first significant delegation from the newly elected UK Labour government under PM Keir Starmer.

Lammy, who succeeded David Cameron as Britain's top diplomat, has been the Labour Party's international affairs spokesperson for over two years. He stressed the importance of resetting the UK-India partnership and confirmed the UK's dedication to securing an FTA to boost both economies. 'Our Free Trade Agreement negotiations are just the foundation of our shared ambitions.' Lammy emphasized the collaborative focus on green transitions, new technologies, and security.

The UK Foreign Secretary's two-day visit aims to cement a new UK-India partnership, emphasizing economic and global security. Lammy is scheduled to meet Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and climate and business leaders, aiming to unlock the partnership's full potential. The British High Commission stated Lammy's intent to underscore both nations' commitment to a comprehensive FTA.

Lammy will also highlight the 'Living Bridge'—1.7 million UK residents of Indian heritage who significantly impact British society. The British High Commission praised the substantial contributions of British Indians to the socio-economic landscape. Following his India tour, Lammy will attend the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting in Laos to further UK economic partnerships and promote new climate and health initiatives. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)