On December 19, 2024, Prime Minister Modi and King Charles III reaffirmed their commitment to the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, discussing cooperation on climate action, technology, and upcoming festive greetings. They emphasized the Roadmap 2030 and the initiation of a Technology Security Initiative, aiming to enhance bilateral trade and collaboration in critical technologies.
On December 19, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with King Charles III of the United Kingdom, solidifying their commitment to enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UK. During the conversation, the leaders addressed various topics including the Commonwealth of Nations, particularly reflecting on the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Samoa. They also reviewed efforts and initiatives related to climate action and sustainability, highlighting mutual interests in upcoming festive occasions such as Christmas and the New Year, with Prime Minister Modi extending his best wishes for the King’s health.
The strategic partnership between India and the UK was initially established during a Virtual Summit on May 4, 2021, between Prime Minister Modi and then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. This partnership includes a Roadmap 2030 that sets objectives for bilateral cooperation over the next decade, focusing on trade and investment, defense and security, climate change, and technology
Recent discussions have featured high-level meetings to assess the progress of Roadmap 2030. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s visit to New Delhi on July 24, 2024, resulted in fruitful talks with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. During these discussions, both parties expressed satisfaction with the advancements made under the roadmap and agreed to heighten ambitions for future collaboration.
Prime Minister Modi has also welcomed steps towards finalizing a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Moreover, both nations are set to initiate a Technology Security Initiative (TSI) aimed at enhancing cooperation in critical and emerging technologies including AI, semiconductors, and quantum computing. This TSI initiative is being managed by the National Security Advisors of India and the UK and involves trade promotion mechanisms led by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the UK government, ensuring focused collaboration on major technological sectors.
The ongoing relationship between India and the UK has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly with the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. This deal aims to deepen bilateral ties through cooperation in various fields such as defense, trade, and technology. The Commonwealth of Nations serves as an important platform for both countries, emphasizing shared values and collaborative goals in international forums. As such, high-level dialogues are essential for reviewing progress and setting future agendas, highlighted by recent meetings with key officials from both nations.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent discussion with King Charles III marks a reaffirmation of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The leaders articulated their shared commitment to addressing global challenges, particularly in climate action and emerging technologies. With initiatives such as the upcoming Technology Security Initiative and discussions on a Free Trade Agreement, India and the UK are poised to strengthen their bilateral collaboration amidst evolving global dynamics.
Original Source: www.indianewsnetwork.com
