India-UK will increase cooperation in health-tech, AI-semiconductor; TSI's impact will increase

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, during a meeting with British Foreign Minister David Lammy, stated that the areas of cooperation initiated since his last visit to India are progressing positively. Lammy emphasized that promoting the Technology Security Initiative will enhance collaboration between the two countries. He also noted that signing the free trade agreement is only the beginning of both countries' ambitions. We are constructing a modern partnership with India for a new global era.

Referring to the Technology Security Initiative (TSI), Jaishankar mentioned that it will boost cooperation in strategic technology sectors such as AI, semiconductors, telecommunications, quantum, health tech, biotech, critical minerals, and advanced materials. Additionally, we have launched a strategic export and technology cooperation dialogue. The effectiveness of the TSI will improve trade in critical and emerging technologies, which includes addressing relevant licensing or regulatory challenges.

Jaishankar also highlighted the UK-India Infrastructure Financial Bridge, stating that it will facilitate quality long-term capital flow from Britain to India, contributing significantly to infrastructure development. He noted the strong cooperation in the education sector, with many more universities planning to establish campuses in India. Furthermore, he expressed pride in the mutual relations between people, mentioning that he himself had the honor of inaugurating two new consulates in Manchester and Belfast.

In an interview at the British High Commission, UK Foreign Minister Lammy said the two countries completed negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) early last month. Our Prime Minister Keir Starmer is eager to visit India very soon to sign the free trade agreement. Our two countries can achieve a great deal together.

He added that with PM Modi and Foreign Minister Jaishankar, he also discussed enhancing trade between the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world. Lammy stated, "we want to promote even closer relations and cooperation in terms of promoting development, fostering innovative technology, tackling the climate crisis, meeting our migration priorities, and providing more security for our people."