Top News

Strengthening Economic Ties

New Delhi, June 18: Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, has commenced a significant two-day visit to the United Kingdom aimed at enhancing the strategic dialogue surrounding the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and fostering deeper economic collaboration.

In light of shifting global trade patterns, Goyal's mission is to expedite bilateral discussions, seize new opportunities, and establish a solid groundwork for a resilient and mutually advantageous economic partnership, as stated by the Commerce Ministry.

This visit highlights India's commitment to fortifying its economic and trade relations with the UK, especially following the recent commitment by both Prime Ministers to finalize the India-UK FTA.

During his stay, Goyal is set to meet with Jonathan Reynolds, the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to assess the progress of the ongoing FTA negotiations and to outline a definitive, time-sensitive plan for its completion and execution.

Additionally, he will engage with Rachel Reeves, the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, to discuss key macroeconomic issues, financial collaboration, and investment facilitation between the two nations.

Goyal is also scheduled to connect with Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, to investigate potential partnerships in creative industries and innovation-driven sectors.

Moreover, he will take part in several impactful sessions at the renowned India Global Forum (IGF), including the Mainstage Plenary, the Future Frontiers Forum, and a roundtable discussion titled ‘From Agreement to Action: UK–India FTA’.

These discussions will convene global business leaders, investors, and policy experts to explore the strategic dimensions of the India-UK economic corridor and the transformative potential of the proposed FTA.

The minister is anticipated to engage with prominent CEOs and industry representatives from vital sectors such as shipping, fintech, logistics, and advanced manufacturing, aiming to strengthen commercial ties and encourage cross-border investments.