What did Jaishankar discuss with UK leaders? Inside his high-stakes London visit

London: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in the United Kingdom as part of his official visit, holding key diplomatic engagements aimed at enhancing India-UK relations.

The visit includes meetings with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and other high-ranking officials to discuss economic cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, and global issues such as the Ukraine conflict.

During his visit, Jaishankar met Chevening Scholars from India, alongside Foreign Secretary David Lammy, acknowledging them as "great advocates of India-UK ties." He praised the scholars as a symbol of India-UK talent exchange and collaboration, highlighting the role of educational and professional networks in strengthening bilateral relations.

Jaishankar also met Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, where discussions focused on advancing economic cooperation and enhancing engagement between the people of both nations. Starmer shared the UK’s perspective on the Ukraine conflict, reflecting broader global concerns and diplomatic priorities.

The Indian Foreign Minister also engaged in talks with UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, addressing key issues such as the flow of talent, countering trafficking, and tackling extremism. He further met Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to discuss progress in India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations, which are seen as crucial for deepening commercial ties between the two nations.

Jaishankar’s UK visit is part of a broader diplomatic tour that also includes a visit to Ireland on March 6 and 7, where he is scheduled to meet Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris and other dignitaries. His discussions in Ireland will focus on strengthening India-Ireland relations and engaging with the Indian diaspora.

The visit is expected to provide renewed momentum to India’s engagement with both the UK and Ireland, reinforcing cooperation across trade, security, education, and strategic affairs. Jaishankar’s meetings reflect India’s proactive diplomatic outreach, ensuring stronger global partnerships and sustained collaboration in critical sectors.