External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer during his official visit to the UK, focusing on strengthening economic cooperation and enhancing people-to-people exchanges between the two nations. The UK PM also shared his views on the ongoing Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar stated in a post on X.
“Delighted to call on Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer at @10DowningStreet today. Conveyed the warm greetings of PM @narendramodi. Discussed taking forward our bilateral, economic cooperation and enhancing people-to-people exchanges. PM Starmer also shared UK’s perspective on the Ukraine conflict,” Jaishankar posted on X.
Meetings with UK Foreign Secretary and Other Officials
EAM Jaishankar also met UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House and expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome.
“Thank you FS @DavidLammy for this extremely warm welcome at the Chevening House. Look forward to our discussions,” Jaishankar wrote on X.
Additionally, he held meetings with UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds.
During his discussion with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Jaishankar emphasized key areas such as talent mobility and joint efforts to combat trafficking and extremism.
“A good meeting with Home Secretary @YvetteCooperMP today in London. We discussed the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, and joint efforts in tackling trafficking and extremism,” he stated.
While meeting Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, Jaishankar reviewed the progress of the ongoing India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.
“Pleased to meet Secretary of State for @biztradegovuk @jreynoldsMP today in London. Discussed the progress on our FTA talks,” he posted on X.
Visit to Ireland and Strengthening Bilateral Ties
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, EAM Jaishankar’s official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland is set to continue until March 9. In Ireland, he will hold discussions with his Irish counterpart, Simon Harris, along with other dignitaries and members of the Indian community.
Jaishankar’s visit to Ireland on March 6-7 aims to reinforce India’s growing economic engagements and shared democratic values with the country.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that his visit will provide renewed momentum to India’s friendly ties with both the UK and Ireland.