I'm hoping to come up with a landing spot that benefits us both: On the India-UK Free Trade Area

 I'm hoping to come up with a landing spot that benefits us both: On the India-UK Free Trade Area

Speaking on Monday in Westminster Hall, which is close to the Houses of Parliament in London, at a special Diwali Reception hosted by the High Commission of India, he referred to the two countries' relationship as a "positive force" for the globe.

The objective of the India-UK relationship, according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, is a free trade agreement (FTA), and New Delhi is hoping to establish a "landing point" in the discussions that works for both parties.

Speaking on Monday in Westminster Hall, which is close to the Houses of Parliament in London, at a special Diwali Reception hosted by the High Commission of India, he referred to the two countries' relationship as a "positive force" for the globe.

In addition, Jaishankar discussed the rapid advancements in technology and socioeconomic progress that India is experiencing and urged the country's biggest Indian diaspora, which is situated in the UK, to promote the narrative of the new India.

"Today, in order to implement Agenda 2030, we are concentrating on what is known as an Enhanced Trade Partnership—commonly known as a free trade agreement, or FTA. The Indian and British systems are now negotiating with it as their main point of contention. We are hoping to arrive at a solution that benefits us both," the Indian Minister of External Affairs said.

"The histories of India and the UK are lengthy and intricate. With our shared values, customs, and institutions, we want to use history to our advantage and turn it into a good force," he said.

Jaishankar is in the UK for a five-day official visit, during which he intends to evaluate a number of bilateral connections.

Along with the India-UK Roadmap 2030, which aims to strengthen relations in a number of sectors, the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership was introduced in 2021.

Since January of last year, India and the UK have been in talks to negotiate a free trade deal, with the aim of further expanding their estimated GBP 36 billion bilateral commercial relationship.

There have been thirteen rounds of discussions, and the authorities are hoping to reach a consensus before the 2024 general elections in both nations.

Thanking British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his time on a hectic Diwali day on Sunday in 10 Downing Street, Jaishankar started his speech.

In addition, he mentioned how much he "really valued" the fact that, on the first day of his new position, Foreign Secretary David Cameron took the time to meet with him before he "addressed his own ministry".

Hearing from him about his dedication to and support of the relationship was really gratifying. We spoke about nurturing both for a long time," Jaishankar said.

In addition, he said that he had met James Cleverly, the new UK Home Secretary, who succeeded Cameron and whom he called a "pillar of strength" for the two countries' relationship.

Indian diplomat to the UK Vikram Doraiswami as well as UK Foreign Office Minister Lord Tariq Ahmad attended the ceremony with the External Affairs Minister.