External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar met with United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer during his official visit to the UK, focusing on advancing bilateral economic cooperation and enhancing people-to-people exchanges between the two nations. The leaders also discussed global issues, with PM Starmer sharing the UK’s perspective on the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
Jaishankar expressed his delight at the meeting in a post on X, stating, “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.”
The EAM also met with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, thanking him for the warm reception and expressing optimism about their discussions. “Thank you FS @DavidLammy for this extremely warm welcome at the Chevening House. Look forward to our discussions,” Jaishankar wrote on X.
In addition to his meetings with PM Starmer and Foreign Secretary Lammy, Jaishankar held talks with other senior UK officials. During his meeting with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, they discussed key issues like the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, 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 shared on X.
Jaishankar also met with Jonathan Reynolds, the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to review progress on the ongoing free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between India and the UK. “Pleased to meet Secretary of State for @biztradegovuk @jreynoldsMP today in London. Discussed the progress on our FTA talks,” Jaishankar wrote.
As per the Ministry of External Affairs statement, EAM Jaishankar’s official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland, running until March 9, aims to strengthen India’s friendly ties with both nations. During his visit to Ireland on March 6 and 7, Jaishankar is set to meet with Irish counterpart Simon Harris, other dignitaries, and members of the Indian community.
India and Ireland share warm bilateral relations built on shared democratic values, cultural connections, and expanding economic engagement. Jaishankar’s visit is expected to provide renewed momentum to India’s partnerships with both the UK and Ireland, enhancing cooperation and fostering closer diplomatic ties.