London, March 4: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer during his official visit to the UK and Ireland. The two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral economic cooperation and enhancing people-to-people exchanges between their countries.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar shared, “Delighted to call on Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer at @10DowningStreet today. Conveyed warm greetings from PM @narendramodi. Discussed advancing our bilateral economic cooperation and enhancing people-to-people exchanges. PM Starmer also shared the UK’s perspective on the Ukraine conflict.”
Talks With UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy
Jaishankar also met UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House, where they discussed diplomatic collaboration. Expressing gratitude for the warm welcome, he wrote on X:
“Thank you FS @DavidLammy for this extremely warm welcome at the Chevening House. Looking forward to our discussions.”
Meetings With UK Home and Business Secretaries
During his visit, Jaishankar held discussions with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, and joint efforts to tackle trafficking and extremism. He highlighted the importance of India-UK cooperation in ensuring security and lawful migration.
In a meeting with Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, Jaishankar reviewed the progress of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. He expressed optimism about strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Jaishankar’s Visit to Ireland
Following his UK meetings, Jaishankar will travel to Ireland on March 6-7, where he will meet Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris and other dignitaries. His visit aims to boost India-Ireland diplomatic and economic relations.
According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar’s visit will provide renewed momentum to India’s ties with both the UK and Ireland, strengthening their democratic values, cultural bonds, and growing economic engagements.