UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy on Saturday expressed support for India’s fight against cross-border terrorism as Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the need for decisive international action against terrorism and those supporting it.
Lammy, who arrived here this morning on a visit to review various aspects of the strategic partnership between the two countries, separately met PM Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.
Condemning the Pahalgam terror attack, Lammy said, “There has been a horrific terrorist attack since we last met and my PM wishes me to convey once again the deep condolences of the UK and a hand of friendship with India and support as we deal with the terrorism threat in a comprehensive manner.”
In a statement, the PM’s Office said, “Modi underscored the need for decisive international action against terrorism and those who support it.”
Lammy’s visit came after India and the UK agreed to the historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on May 6. The FTA targets increasing trade by more than £25 billon every year.
During talks, Lammy conveyed a “strong interest to further cooperation” with India across key sectors, including trade, investment, defence, security, technology, innovation and clean energy.
Lammy expressed confidence that the FTA would unlock new economic opportunities for both countries. He held delegation-level talks with EAM Jaishankar and also met Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.
Speaking on terror, Jaishankar said, “We practise a policy of zero tolerance against terrorism and expect our partners to understand it, and we will never countenance perpetrators of evil being put on par with their victims.”
Notably, Lammy was the first minister from a major country to visit Pakistan after cessation of hostilities with India on May 10. Lammy was in Islamabad on May 17.
Meanwhile, both sides also held the first meeting of the Strategic Exports and Technology Cooperation Dialogue on June 3. It was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and UK Permanent Under-Secretary, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Sir Oliver Robbins. It is expected to enhance, among other things, the Technology Security Initiative’s effectiveness in promoting trade in critical and emerging technologies, including the resolution of relevant licensing or regulatory issues.
The two countries have had a good collaboration in the education sector.
In a statement, the UK Foreign Office said during the visit, the UK was looking to deepen and diversify the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. (With PTI inputs)
