S Jaishankar reaches London for a 5-day visit to UK

At the beginning of a five-day visit to UK, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has arrived in London with the intention of reviewing various aspects of bilateral ties and providing “new impetus to the friendly ties.”

“Wishing everyone a very happy and prosperous Diwali. Hope that this Festival of Lights brings peace, prosperity and health for all,” the EAM posted on X on Sunday.

The EAM is scheduled to speak at a Diwali Reception hosted by the Indian High Commission in London on Monday, in addition to attending an event at Lord’s Cricket Ground while in the UK.

He is also anticipated to participate in a conversation on the subject of “How a billion people see the world” and attend a ceremony later next week for the return of two historic temple sculptures from Uttar Pradesh. In London, he is expected to discuss preparations for British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s potential visit to India in the coming months with his UK counterpart, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.

“External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be on an official visit to the United Kingdom from November 11-15,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had earlier said.

“India and the UK have a growing bilateral partnership. During his visit, the external affairs minister will be holding discussions with his counterpart, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and will meet several other dignitaries,” it said in a statement.

“The roadmap is a commitment to a partnership that delivers for both the countries. The External Affairs Minister’s visit will give a new impetus to the friendly ties between the two countries,” the MEA said.

Since January last year, India and the UK have been in talks to sign a free trade agreement (FTA) with the aim of greatly expanding their estimated GBP 36 billion bilateral trading relationship.

There have been thirteen rounds of negotiations, and the officials are hoping to reach a consensus before the 2024 general elections in both countries.

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