India and UK Revitalize Strategic Ties at 2+2 Dialogue in New Delhi

In a significant stride toward bolstering bilateral ties, India and the United Kingdom convened the second 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue in New Delhi on December 3, 2024. Senior officials from both nations engaged in a comprehensive review of the India-UK Strategic Partnership, reiterating their commitment to advancing cooperation across a range of critical sectors. Led by Piyush Srivastava from India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Vishwesh Negi from the Ministry of Defence, the Indian delegation engaged in high-level discussions with their UK counterparts, Mr Ben Mellor of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Mr Shimon Fhima of the Ministry of Defence. Both sides emphasized the importance of sustained engagement to align efforts on shared priorities. “This dialogue reflects the depth and dynamism of our relationship with the UK. We are committed to identifying new areas of collaboration while building on the progress we have achieved under the India-UK Roadmap 2030,” said Srivastava. The meeting highlighted mutual ambitions to expedite the conclusion of a free trade agreement (FTA), strengthen defence and security cooperation, and enhance collaboration in emerging technologies, clean energy, and health sectors. A key focus was on fostering innovation, particularly in critical areas such as cyber security and counter-terrorism. Both delegations lauded the progress achieved in recent initiatives, including the launch of the Technology and Security Initiative, the UK-India Infrastructure Finance Bridge, and the Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership. They also discussed progress on the Defence Industrial Roadmap, underscoring the partnership’s focus on co-development and co-production of defence equipment. “Our partnership is not only historic but also forward-looking,” said Mr. Mellor. “From trade to technology, and from defence to clean energy, the potential for our collaboration is immense. These dialogues help us shape a future that benefits both nations.” The dialogue also served as a platform for an exchange of views on global and regional developments. Both nations reiterated their shared commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. India and the UK have aligned interests in the region, particularly in ensuring maritime security, sustainable development, and resilience against geopolitical disruptions. Another crucial dimension of the discussions was the emphasis on cultural, educational, and people-to-people ties. The two nations acknowledged the role of the Indian diaspora in the UK as a bridge between the two societies. “Our deep-rooted cultural and educational connections are the bedrock of our partnership,” remarked Mr. Fhima. “We aim to strengthen these bonds further.” Looking ahead, both sides agreed on the importance of revitalizing the India-UK Roadmap 2030 by identifying new focus areas. This refreshed vision is expected to further cement their strategic partnership and adapt to evolving global challenges. The two countries plan to convene the third edition of the dialogue in the UK in 2025. While no exact date was announced, both sides expressed optimism about maintaining momentum in their bilateral engagements. The meeting underscored a growing recognition of the value of the India-UK partnership, not just for the two countries but also in shaping a stable and secure global order. As both nations navigate shared challenges and opportunities, the 2+2 Dialogue has reinforced their commitment to crafting a robust and future-oriented relationship.