- Lord Ahmad’s visit aims to deepen partnerships in science, technology, and innovation between the UK and India.
- The visit highlights the UK’s commitment to strengthening long-term foreign policy engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.
- The focus on science and technology collaboration supports the ongoing efforts to negotiate a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and India.
- Lord Ahmad’s visit includes engagements in Rajasthan, New Delhi, and Hyderabad, showcasing cultural heritage, education programs, health-tech innovations, and science and technology facilities.
Building Collaborative Partnerships: Lord Ahmad’s Visit
Lord Ahmad, the UK Minister for South Asia, is currently in India for a visit aimed at accelerating collaboration between the UK and India in the fields of science, technology, and health. This visit follows a significant agreement on science, research, and innovation signed by both countries in April, which set the foundation for further cooperation in these areas. Lord Ahmad’s meetings with senior Indian Ministers and officials, including Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla, and G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, highlight the importance of fostering strong bilateral ties between the UK and India.
Emphasizing UK’s Commitment to Science, Technology, and Innovation
Lord Ahmad’s visit underscores the UK’s commitment to deepening partnerships and collaborations in science, technology, and innovation worldwide. This commitment is evident through the recent announcement of a new Tech Envoy to the Indo-Pacific, aimed at fostering technological advancements and collaborations in the region. Strengthening the UK-India relationship is a vital aspect of the UK’s long-term foreign policy, as outlined in the Integrated Review Refresh, which emphasizes its enduring engagement in the Indo-Pacific.
Collaboration on Science and Technology: Unlocking Innovations
Expressing his enthusiasm for the partnership, Lord Ahmad stated that the UK and India are trusted partners connected by a unique living bridge between the two countries and people. Building upon the 2030 Roadmap for India-UK future relations, the collaboration on science and technology aims to bring forth new innovations benefiting both nations. This collaborative approach aligns with the shared vision of creating a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem for research, development, and innovation.
Towards a Mutually Beneficial Free Trade Agreement
Lord Ahmad’s visit coincides with ongoing efforts to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and India. A comprehensive and balanced FTA has the potential to enhance the existing trading relationship, which was worth £36 billion in 2022. Such a trade deal aligns with the UK government’s growth strategy, leveraging its status as an independent trading nation to create new trade and investment opportunities while championing the principles of free trade.
Exploring Rajasthan’s Cultural Heritage and Promoting Education
During his visit, Lord Ahmad will travel to Rajasthan, specifically Jodphur, his mother’s birthplace. This visit serves to highlight the rich cultural history of the region. Lord Ahmad’s itinerary includes a visit to the iconic Mehrangarh Fort and engaging in discussions with emerging women leaders on topics such as education, sustainability, and gender equality. This engagement underlines the commitment to empower women and promote equal opportunities in education and leadership.
Enhancing Global Employment Opportunities and Health-Tech Innovations
During his visit to New Delhi, Lord Ahmad will inaugurate the ‘English Skills for Youth’ program, a joint initiative between the British Council and Microsoft India. This program has a targeted goal of improving global employment prospects for young individuals in India, with a particular emphasis on empowering young women. Additionally, Lord Ahmad will take the opportunity to announce the winners of the UK-India Health-Tech Bootcamp, an event designed to nurture and amplify health-tech innovations originating from India.
Showcasing Science and Technology Innovations in Hyderabad
Lord Ahmad’s visit will conclude in Hyderabad, where he will highlight science and technology innovations. His itinerary includes visits to T-Hub and T-Works, which are technology start-up incubators and prototyping facilities located within the world’s largest innovation campus. He will also visit Skyroot, a space launch vehicle company, and the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology. Furthermore, Lord Ahmad will discuss potential collaborations in science and technology with Indian alumni of Chevening, the UK’s flagship international scholarship program.
Source: Gov[DOT]UK
