External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street on Tuesday, conveying greetings from PM Narendra Modi during his six-day visit to the UK and Ireland. Jaishankar said their talks covered advancing India-UK bilateral cooperation and the UK’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “Discussed economic ties, people-to-people exchanges, and PM Starmer’s perspective on Ukraine,” he posted on X.

Earlier, Jaishankar held discussions with UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds on the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), aimed at enhancing the GBP 41-billion trade partnership. Relaunched last month during Reynolds’ Delhi visit, the FTA remains a key focus. Jaishankar also met Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, addressing talent mobility, extremism, and trafficking.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted the visit strengthens the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, spanning defence, trade, health, and education. Jaishankar’s itinerary includes talks with Foreign Secretary David Lammy and other dignitaries, alongside diaspora engagements. Amid the UK’s push for peace in Ukraine, foreign policy and security issues are also on the agenda. On Wednesday, he’ll speak at Chatham House on India’s global role.

Jaishankar’s trip extends to Ireland on Thursday, meeting counterpart Simon Harris in Dublin to bolster ties rooted in shared values and economic growth. Returning to the UK, he’ll inaugurate new Indian consulates in Belfast on Friday and Manchester on Saturday, joined by UK Minister Catherine West. A diaspora event at Old Trafford, marking International Women’s Day on March 8, concludes his visit.

The talks underscore India’s rising diplomatic clout and the UK’s balancing act in global conflicts, with the FTA poised to deepen economic collaboration. Jaishankar’s engagements highlight both nations’ commitment to a robust partnership.