New Delhi, Dec 3 (UNI) India and the UK held the second 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue in New Delhi today during which both sides reviewed progress under the India-UK Roadmap 2030 and discussed the early conclusion of a mutually beneficial FTA, and bolstering defence and security ties.
The Indian delegation was led by Piyush Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Europe West, Ministry of External Affairs, and Vishwesh Negi, Joint Secretary, International Cooperation, Ministry of Defence.
The UK delegation was led by Ben Mellor, India Director, Indian Ocean Directorate, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Shimon Fhima, Director Strategic Programmes, Ministry of Defence, a statement said.
Both sides discussed the entire gamut of India-UK comprehensive Strategic Partnership and emphasized the importance of sustained high-level engagement to advance the dynamic partnership between the two countries.
The delegations reviewed progress under the India-UK Roadmap 2030 and agreed on the need to revitalize the partnership by identifying new focus areas of collaboration and work towards a refreshed roadmap.
The discussions covered key priorities including strengthening economic and trade ties with focus on early conclusion of mutually beneficial FTA, bolstering defence and security ties including in areas of cyber and counter terrorism, fostering innovation in critical and emerging technologies, deepening cooperation in clean and green energy and technology, health and enhancing cultural, educational and people to people linkages.
The two sides appreciated the progress on diverse sectors including the launch of new key initiatives such as the Technology and Security Initiative, UK- India Infrastructure Finance Bridge, Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership, and progress on the Defence Industrial Roadmap.
The dialogue provided an opportunity to exchange views on recent global and regional developments. Both sides reiterated their shared vision for peace, stability, and prosperity in a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
It was agreed that the third edition of the dialogue will be held in the UK at a mutually convenient date in 2025, it said.
The MEA spokesperson posted on X:
“The second India-UK 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue was held in New Delhi today.
“Co-chaired by Piyush Srivastava, Joint Secy(Europe West) & Vishwesh Negi, Joint Secy(International Cooperation) @MinofDefIndia on the Indian side and Ben Mellor, Director
@FCDOGovUK & Shimon Fhima, Strategic Operations Director, Ministry of Defence on the UK side.
“Both sides reviewed progress made in diverse areas of India-Great Britain cooperation and discussed ways for further strengthening India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”
