External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar along with his wife Kyoko Jaishankar celebrated Diwali with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshta Murthy at 10 Downing Street during his visit to the UK. Apart from that, Jaishankar and his wife visited Europe’s first authentic Hindu temple, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir also known as the Neasden Temple. Jaishankar shared his experience of delight in meeting UK PM Sunak on Twitter and also conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s best wishes. The focus of the visit was to enhance the relationship between the countries and the current ties among the countries at present.
Having arrived with his wife on Saturday, the external Affairs Minister is scheduled to conclude his visit in Britain on November 15. In 2021, the complete strategic partnership between both the countries was initiated and it aims in maintaining a long-term relationship. Remarkably they are communicating about the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at present which was launched in 2022. From August 8-31, the 12th round of negotiations happened this year.
Focusing on the ongoing advancements about FTA, PM Modi and UK PM Sunak had a telephonic discussion with regard to it. Both the delegates highlighted the vitality of this deal with results benefiting both the countries. For the warm hospitality in the Diwali celebrations in the UK, Jaishankar conveyed his thankfulness to Mr. and Mrs. Sunak.
There were productive meetings with several dignitaries apart from the diplomatic engagements. With the ongoing FTA negotiations and Strategic Partnership, the relationship between the countries is evolving. Jaishankar’s continuous meetings and communications are going to strengthen the strategic bonds between the countries even more.
