‘Most substantial trade pact since EU exit, sends positive message to world’: British Deputy High Commissioner | India News No. 1

We have got two governments that had general elections at roughly the same time over the last year, there’s been a lot of conversations. Vision 2035 sets out the joint ambition for the next decade for the two governments. I am expecting quite a heavy drumbeat of contact and visits over the autumn. Personally, I hope that involves my Prime Minister, but we will see. We hope to make that happen as soon as possible. Our PM will be very keen to come at the earliest opportunity.

How is the FTA being viewed in the UK as the world deals with the US trade tariff negotiations?

Our FTA has gone down enormously well in the UK. For us, it is the most substantial economic trade agreement we have made since leaving the European Union. It’s also the broadest trade deal that India has ever done, and sends a very positive message to the world. It’s been three or four years now in negotiating this document and for the two big democracies like this to come together. The FTA is good for itself, regardless of what other countries are choosing to do.

What would be the biggest takeaway for the UK from this FTA?

It is anticipated that it will add — over the medium term — £25 billion a year to the trade between the two countries. It will also add to the UK GDP. It offers opportunities for British businesses to invest in India. And it’s a great story also for our British consumers who can benefit from cheaper and quality goods from India as well. Both governments, when they were negotiating, had their domestic issues very much at heart and we have come to this point because we have such complementary economies.

This time, there was a lot of talk about Khalistani extremism… PM Modi spoke about this at the joint press statement. What was the kind of conversation the two sides had? And what was the kind of assurance the UK would have given?

The UK takes violent extremism of any form incredibly seriously. We are working closely with the government of India and we know the importance and we have a duty in the UK to disrupt violent extremists. It’s part of the conversation we have with India and we will continue to work with India on the exchange of information where we think such influences exist.

But there’s a layer of freedom of expression that comes in, which India is not very comfortable, especially with referendums and everything.
The UK has a proud history of peaceful protest and the right to peaceful protest within the law. And it’s an important part of our democracy that people have the right to give their views. But it can’t be in a way that incites violence. When it trips over the line, our police are very good at taking action in accordance with the law to uphold the security of our nation.

Vision 2035 clearly spells out that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations has to be condemned. In that context, was there any discussion about the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor?

The (Indian) Prime Minister referenced in the joint press conference that they talked about this. And obviously, our PM will have expressed deep condolences for the terrible attack in Pahalgam. For the UK, the peace and stability of this region matters a lot, because we have such great links.

What you can see from Vision 2035 is the importance and emphasis we put on our security and defence relationship with India. And in that document, a number of areas where the PMs are committed to working together for the stability of the region. And that’s the really important thing going forward.

Vision 2035 also talks about cooperation in justice, law enforcement. So we have these cases of fugitive economic offenders, their extradition cases are pending. Were they discussed specifically in this visit?

Home Affairs collaboration is one of the really important things that is a priority for both governments. And it’s regularly discussed in Home Affairs dialogues and meetings between our security colleagues. On the specific point of extradition, both governments are committed to supporting extradition within the laws of their countries. And the UK will continue to try and facilitate that in accordance with the dual legal process.

Going forward, for the next 10 years, since we talk about Vision 2035, what are going to be the strongest pillars of bilateral ties?

The growth has got to be the core part of the story. Defence and security is one (area) where we have not realised the potential yet. And the signing of an agreement last week of a defence industrial roadmap is a massive step forward. We now need to make a reality and get our defence industries working much more closely.

Was there any specific conversation about the UK supporting India’s bid for a permanent UNSC seat?

The UK has already said publicly that it supports permanent membership of India on the Security Council. And that may well have come up in conversations. But we are really keen to see India play a role internationally — be it the UN Security Council or the Commonwealth — commensurate with its size and importance in the world. It’s got such a powerful and positive role to play. And that’s what we want to help it do.

The announcement of the latest trade pact between India and the United Kingdom has been hailed as the most substantial agreement since Britain’s exit from the European Union, a milestone moment in the journey of the UK’s post-Brexit trade strategy. British Deputy High Commissioner recently emphasized that this agreement is not just about economics—it is a symbol of optimism, collaboration, and renewed global engagement. The pact is being viewed as a clear signal that the UK is ready to embrace dynamic partnerships, and India stands as a pivotal ally in this endeavor.

A Landmark After Brexit

Ever since leaving the EU, the UK has faced the challenge of building new alliances and diversifying its trade relations. The Deputy High Commissioner described this pact as a “turning point” that provides Britain with a much-needed success story in its trade diplomacy. Unlike smaller trade deals signed in the recent past, this one with India carries significant weight due to the size of India’s economy, its growing influence on the global stage, and its role as one of the fastest-growing consumer markets in the world.

Strengthening India–UK Relations

The agreement is not just a transactional deal; it symbolizes the deepening of India–UK relations. Both countries share a long history of cultural, political, and economic ties, and this pact serves as a continuation of that legacy. It is expected to enhance cooperation in critical sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, financial services, education, and renewable energy. Moreover, it reflects the mutual trust and shared vision of both governments in building a sustainable and prosperous future.

A Boost to Businesses and Investors

For businesses, this pact brings clarity and opportunity. Indian exporters will gain greater access to the UK market, particularly in sectors like textiles, agriculture, and IT services. At the same time, British firms will find it easier to invest in India’s booming industries such as fintech, green energy, and infrastructure. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on both sides are expected to be major beneficiaries, as the agreement simplifies trade barriers and provides smoother market entry routes.

Sending a Positive Message to the World

The Deputy High Commissioner highlighted that this agreement sends a positive message beyond India and the UK. In an era where trade tensions and protectionism often dominate global discourse, this pact demonstrates that nations can still work together for shared prosperity. It signals that the UK is serious about building constructive partnerships, while India continues to cement its position as a global economic powerhouse.

Wider Geopolitical Significance

Beyond trade, this pact also has geopolitical significance. With shifting power dynamics in Asia and Europe, closer ties between India and the UK strengthen both nations’ strategic positions. For India, it means enhanced support from a permanent member of the UN Security Council. For the UK, it strengthens its Indo-Pacific strategy and reinforces its global influence post-Brexit.

Conclusion

Described as the most substantial trade pact since the EU exit, this agreement is more than just numbers on a balance sheet—it is a statement of intent, trust, and partnership. By forging this deal, India and the UK have not only unlocked new economic opportunities but also demonstrated the power of cooperation in an uncertain world. As the Deputy High Commissioner noted, this pact sends a positive message to the world: that open dialogue, mutual respect, and shared goals remain the cornerstones of global progress.