British Foreign Secretary David Lammy arrived in New Delhi today, his second trip here since assuming office. The visit is aimed at fast-tracking collaboration under the UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advancing shared economic and migration priorities.
It follows the recent finalisation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two nations. Lammy has met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and will also call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The FTA, hailed as a milestone, is projected to add over £25 billion to annual trade flows. Besides, it will strengthen the UK’s GDP by £4.8 billion and boost wages by £2.2 billion in the long term.
“India continues to be a pivotal partner as we deliver on our Plan for Change. Our work together is creating jobs, fuelling innovation and reinforcing the long-standing ties between our people,” he said.
Migration, Investment On Agenda
Enhancing cooperation on migration is a key part of the agenda. The UK aims at improving border security and protecting citizens through coordinated action with international partners. Lammy is expected to welcome progress made under the UK-India migration framework, which supports legal and secure movement between the two countries.
Beyond governmental meetings, Lammy will engage with top Indian business leaders to explore avenues for deeper trade and investment collaboration. Bilateral investment already sustains over 600,000 jobs in both countries, and the UK hosts nearly 1,000 Indian-owned companies. India remains a leading investor in the UK, ranking second in terms of the number of new investment projects for the fifth year running.
The visit will also serve to review progress on a number of joint initiatives, including recent cultural cooperation agreements and trade and investment wins valued at £400 million. These developments follow a series of diplomatic engagements over the past year, highlighting the growing momentum in UK-India relations.
In addition, Lammy is expected to raise regional security concerns, including the outcome of the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Besides, he will discuss strategies for maintaining peace and stability in South Asia.
As the UK prepares to roll out its new industrial strategy aimed at streamlining business operations and attracting global partners, India’s support and participation are seen as essential.
Lammy’s visit underscores the UK’s intention to not only build on existing agreements but to chart a more ambitious, modern partnership with India that addresses global challenges, drives technological innovation and delivers tangible benefits for citizens in both countries.
