Britain’s newly-appointed Foreign Secretary David Lammy is set to embark on his first official visit to India, with a focus on boosting bilateral ties and advancing negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two nations. The Labour government’s commitment to forging a stronger partnership with India is evident as Lammy gears up for discussions on economic, security, and trade-related matters during his visit to New Delhi.
The visit comes at a critical juncture as both countries have been engaged in FTA talks for over two years, aiming to enhance the current trading partnership valued at GBP 38.1 billion annually. With 13 rounds of negotiations completed and the 14th round underway, key issues such as mobility of skilled professionals and import duty concessions are on the agenda to finalize the agreement.
Lammy’s trip underscores the significance of India as a key strategic partner for Britain, particularly in addressing global challenges like climate change and clean energy transition. The Foreign Secretary is poised to engage with Indian ministers, business leaders, and stakeholders to explore avenues for collaboration in areas such as clean power access, technology, and innovation.
As both nations look to unlock their shared potential and drive growth through enhanced cooperation, Lammy’s visit signals a renewed focus on fostering a robust UK-India partnership that benefits not just their populations but also the global community. The Labour government’s approach to strengthening ties with India underscores a commitment to building a more interconnected and prosperous future for both countries.
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