Jaishankar Emphasizes Zero Tolerance for Terrorism in UK Talks
India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, firmly restated the country's unwavering stance against terrorism during comprehensive discussions with the United Kingdom's Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, in New Delhi on June 7, 2025. Highlighting the principle that perpetrators of terrorism cannot be equated with their victims, Jaishankar called on international partners to respect India’s strict policy of zero tolerance toward terrorism.
Strengthening India-UK Strategic Partnership
The dialogue took place against the backdrop of recent border tensions between India and Pakistan, with New Delhi closely monitoring narratives linking the two nations. Jaishankar appreciated the UK's firm condemnation of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and acknowledged London’s solid backing of India’s counterterrorism efforts.
Following the meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the British Foreign Secretary conveyed strong condemnation of the Pahalgam incident and expressed support for decisive international action against terrorism and its enablers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted the importance of the recently signed India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the Double Contribution Convention (DCC), calling these developments a "strategic milestone" poised to unlock vast potential across multiple sectors within the bilateral partnership.
Expanding Collaboration Beyond Security
Both sides reviewed progress made in trade, defence, technology, health, green energy, education, and cultural ties, marking an era of increased cooperation. Jaishankar underscored initiatives such as the Technology Security Initiative (TSI), aimed at deepening collaboration in cutting-edge fields like AI, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotech, and critical minerals.
The UK-India infrastructure financial bridge was also highlighted as a tool to channel quality long-term UK investments directly into India's infrastructure projects, accelerating development and growth.
Commitment to Migration and Cultural Exchanges
Lammy emphasized migration as a high priority, focusing on securing borders while maintaining people-to-people connections. He acknowledged India's role as a vital partner in the UK’s broader strategic vision, referencing how trade between the nations surpasses £25 billion annually and pointing to India's position as the UK's second-largest source of investment projects for the fifth consecutive year.
The visit also included engagements with leading Indian business figures, aimed at unlocking further Indian investment in the UK, while expressions of intent were made to expand educational cooperation, with plans for multiple Indian campuses within the UK.
Looking Ahead: A Modern Global Partnership
Both ministers expressed optimism about advancing their shared goals, with Jaishankar and Lammy describing the relationship as entering a "new global era." Lammy remarked on building a modern partnership focused on trade, technology, climate solutions, migration, and security, emphasizing that the signing of the FTA is just the beginning of an ambitious agenda.
This high-level engagement reflects a mutual commitment to strengthening ties at every level, fostering stability in the region, and delivering tangible benefits to citizens of both nations.
