London: During his official visit to the United Kingdom, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss the enhancement of bilateral economic cooperation and the promotion of people-to-people exchanges between India and the UK.
In a post on X, Jaishankar mentioned that the UK Prime Minister also shared his insights regarding the Ukraine conflict. Additionally, the EAM engaged with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and other senior officials.
Jaishankar expressed his pleasure in meeting Prime Minister Starmer at 10 Downing Street, conveying the warm regards of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted their discussions on advancing economic collaboration and fostering closer ties between the citizens of both nations. Starmer also provided the UK's viewpoint on the situation in Ukraine.
In another update on X, Jaishankar reflected on his meeting with Foreign Secretary David Lammy, expressing gratitude for the warm reception and optimism for their discussions. "Thank you FS @DavidLammy for this extremely warm welcome at Chevening House. I look forward to our discussions," he stated.
Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar also met with the Home Secretary and the Secretary of State for the Department of Business and Trade in the UK.
During his discussion with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Jaishankar noted that they addressed topics such as the movement of talent and collaborative efforts between India and the UK to combat trafficking and extremism. He remarked on X, "A productive meeting with Home Secretary @YvetteCooperMP today in London. We discussed the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, and joint initiatives to tackle trafficking and extremism."
During his meeting with Jonathan Reynolds, the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jaishankar emphasized the ongoing discussions regarding the advancement of the free trade agreement negotiations between India and the UK.
He remarked, "It was a pleasure to meet Secretary of State for @biztradegovuk @jreynoldsMP today in London. We discussed the progress of our FTA talks."
According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar is on an official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland until March 9. Throughout this visit, he aims to enhance India's amicable relations with both nations.
In Ireland, Jaishankar is scheduled to meet with his Irish counterpart, Simon Harris, along with other officials and members of the Indian community. His visit to Ireland is planned for March 6 and 7.
India and Ireland enjoy a cordial bilateral relationship founded on shared democratic principles, cultural connections, and increasing economic collaboration.
The visit of the External Affairs Minister is expected to further strengthen India's friendly relations with both the UK and Ireland, as stated in the announcement.
