India and the UK Engage in Inaugural '2+2' Dialogue

• 17 Oct 2023

On 16^th October, 2023, the inaugural India-UK '2+2' foreign and defence dialogue emphasized collaboration in areas including trade, investment, defence, critical technologies, civil aviation, health, and energy.

Key Points

• India-UK '2+2' Dialogue: Key areas of focus included trade and investment, defence, critical and emerging technologies, civil aviation, health, energy, culture, and strengthening people-to-people connections.
• International Developments and Indo-Pacific: The officials also exchanged insights into recent international developments, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, reflecting their shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
• Collaboration possibilities were explored in counterterrorism, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), and maritime security.
• Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: The India-UK relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during a virtual summit between Prime Minister and former British Prime Minister in May 2021.
• A 10-year roadmap was adopted during the summit to expand cooperation in various critical areas, including trade, defence, climate change, and people-to-people connections.
• Positive Outlook: Both delegations expressed satisfaction with the regular high-level political exchanges and interactions, which have provided direction and momentum to the multifaceted India-UK relationship.