India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar Reiterates Zero Tolerance Against Terrorism in Talks with UK

India remains firm in its stance against equating perpetrators of terrorism with their victims, as stated by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during discussions with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy. This statement comes amid concerns in New Delhi about some countries linking India and Pakistan after recent conflicts. The talks aimed to reinforce India's zero-tolerance policy on terrorism.

Upon arriving in Delhi, Lammy met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged the UK's support in combating cross-border terrorism. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that Modi emphasised the need for decisive global action against terrorism and its supporters. The UK strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack, aligning with India's stance.

Strengthening India-UK Relations

The recent India-UK free trade agreement and double contribution convention were hailed as strategic milestones by Modi. These agreements are expected to unlock potential across various sectors. Modi also extended warm greetings to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and reiterated an invitation for a visit to India at a mutually convenient time.

Jaishankar expressed gratitude for the UK's condemnation of the Pahalgam attack and its solidarity with India against terrorism. He reiterated India's zero-tolerance policy, stating, "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 at par with its victims."

Collaborative Efforts in Technology and Security

The discussions also highlighted collaborative efforts in technology and security. Jaishankar noted initiatives like the Technology Security Initiative (TSI), which aims to deepen cooperation in AI, semiconductors, telecom, quantum, health-tech, bio-tech, critical minerals, and advanced materials. A strategic exports and technology cooperation dialogue was launched to enhance trade in emerging technologies.

The UK-India infrastructure financial bridge was mentioned as a means to unlock long-term capital flows from the UK to India, aiding infrastructure development. Educational collaboration is also progressing, with more universities planning campuses in India.

Advancing Bilateral Ties

Lammy's visit provided an opportunity to sustain high-level engagement between the two nations. Both sides agreed to work closely on shared objectives such as boosting trade, tackling climate change, and enhancing security. The British foreign secretary remarked on advancing a new era in UK-India relations by fostering trade and technology partnerships.

Lammy's remarks included: "We are advancing a new era in UK-India relations -- boosting trade and technology, tackling the climate crisis and providing greater security for our people." He also highlighted the importance of addressing migration issues through international cooperation.

Economic and Cultural Connections

The MEA noted progress in diverse sectors under the India-UK comprehensive strategic partnership. These include trade, defence, security, technology, health, green energy, climate change, education, and cultural ties. Lammy emphasised that India was one of his first visits as foreign secretary and has been pivotal in delivering their Plan for Change.

The UK remains focused on securing borders through international collaboration. Lammy stated that signing the free trade agreement with India marks just the beginning of ambitions for both countries. He expressed a desire to strengthen ties further by fostering innovation and addressing migration priorities.

During his visit, Lammy planned meetings with Indian business leaders to explore investment opportunities in the UK. In 2023-24, India ranked as the UK's second-largest source of investments by project numbers for five consecutive years.

Overall, these discussions aimed to deepen and diversify the India-UK partnership across multiple domains.

With inputs from PTI