New Delhi: The discussions regarding the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK are being revitalized, with both parties expressing their commitment to advance the negotiations, stated Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, on Wednesday.
During a press briefing, Jaiswal noted that seven rounds of discussions have already taken place between India and the UK, and both nations are eager to progress with these negotiations.
In response to a question about the FTA discussions with the UK, Jaiswal remarked, “The FTA negotiations with the UK are being relaunched, and both sides are dedicated to moving forward. If I recall correctly, we have completed seven rounds, and this will mark the eighth round. Both parties are enthusiastic about concluding these talks promptly to achieve an early resolution of the FTA discussions.”
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced in March that India and the UK have resumed their negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement. This was confirmed by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and his UK counterpart Jonathan Reynolds during Reynolds' visit to Delhi.
In the press briefing, Jaiswal also mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok, Thailand, on April 4. He noted that Hlaing expressed appreciation for the support India has been providing to Myanmar.
Jaiswal emphasized that PM Modi highlighted the significance of restoring the democratic process in Myanmar through “inclusive and credible elections.” He added that the two leaders also discussed ongoing development initiatives in Myanmar.
In response to inquiries regarding the meeting between Myanmar's senior general and Prime Minister Modi, Jaiswal stated, “This took place during the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. Following the meeting, we provided a summary of the discussions. The leaders shared insights on India's relief efforts in Myanmar, particularly through Operation Brahma. The Senior General expressed his appreciation for India's support.”
“We also emphasized the necessity of promptly restoring the democratic process in Myanmar through inclusive and credible elections. Additionally, we articulated our perspective on promoting a transition that is both Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led, aimed at achieving a peaceful, stable, and democratic future. Furthermore, we discussed development cooperation, including ongoing projects in Myanmar and our willingness to enhance our support to assist the local population and strengthen our bilateral relations,” he continued.
India initiated Operation Brahma to deliver essential support, such as Search and Rescue (SAR), humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and medical assistance, in response to the severe earthquake that hit Myanmar on March 28.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office on April 4 noted, “PM Modi affirmed that India, as the First Responder, stands with Myanmar during this crisis and is prepared to provide additional material assistance and resources if necessary.”
PM Modi highlighted that a military resolution to the conflict is not viable and stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue. He also acknowledged Myanmar's cooperation in the rescue and repatriation of Indian citizens from cyber-scam operations along the Myanmar-Thailand border.
The statement emphasized that the Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of promptly reinstating a democratic process via inclusive and credible elections. He noted India's commitment to initiatives that build trust and promote a transition in Myanmar that is both owned and led by its people, aiming for a peaceful, stable, and democratic future. Addressing the human toll of the current ethnic violence in Myanmar, the Prime Minister asserted that a military solution to the conflict is not viable and emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue.
Additionally, the two leaders talked about the ongoing infrastructure development projects in Myanmar that are supported by India. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India's willingness to assist in meeting the developmental needs of all communities within Myanmar.
