As the G20 Summit 2023 unfolds in New Delhi, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke with ANI about the evolving dynamics of India-UK relations. He highlighted the potential of scientific collaboration between the nations, spoke about his own roots in the country, and shared his perspectives on international concerns. Here is what was said:
Deepening bilateral relations
Prime Minister Sunak began by emphasising the strong state of bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and India, stating that it was in "good health". He expressed keen interest in deepening and broadening the relationship, highlighting the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a priority for both nations.
PM Sunak said, "Prime Minister Modi and I are keen to deepen and broaden our relationship. The FTA is an obvious way for us to do that, so it remains our priority. And I said hard work to go, but I hope we can conclude a successful FTA. I think we can strengthen our security relationship as well."
He referred to the UK and India as "science technology superpowers" and believed that enhanced cooperation could lead to job creation, the growth of new businesses, and the resolution of global challenges.
Addressing extremism and security concerns
When asked about the Khalistan issue, Prime Minister Sunak clearly stated that no extremism or violence is acceptable in the UK.
"It's not right and I won't tolerate it in the UK," the Prime Minister asserted.
He affirmed the UK government's commitment to work closely with the Indian government to address Pro-Khalistan Extremism (PKE).
He stated, "Our security minister recently was just in India talking to his counterparts. We have working groups together to share intelligence and information so that we can root out this kind of violent extremism. It's not right and I won't tolerate it in the UK."
Trade and economic cooperation
PM Sunak expressed his respect for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and their shared ambition to conclude a comprehensive trade deal between India and the UK. While acknowledging the progress made, he recognised that trade deals take time and need to be mutually beneficial.
PM Sunak said, "Modi ji and I are keen to see a comprehensive and ambitious trade deal concluded between our two countries. Both of us think there is a good deal to be done. But trade deals always take time, they need to work for both countries"
He believed that such economic cooperation had the potential to benefit citizens in both countries significantly.
"The teams are working very hard. There's hard work to go but we'll keep working through it. But I think there is an enormous opportunity for both India and the UK to strengthen our economic cooperation, which will bring real benefits to our citizens in both countries," he added.
Addressing the impact of Russia's actions
Prime Minister Sunak pointed out the negative impact on global food prices and the suffering of millions worldwide due to Russia's withdrawal from a grain deal and pledged to use the G20 platform to raise awareness. Sunak believed it was essential to highlight the repercussions of Russia's actions on the international stage.
PM Sunak said, "It is not right. One of the things I will be doing is making people aware of the impact of Russia's illegal war."
India's stand on global issues
Addressing India's stance on international issues, Prime Minister Sunak underlined the importance of universal values such as respect for the international rule of law, adherence to the UN Charter, and protecting territorial integrity. He stated that it was not for him to tell "India what positions to take on international issues." However, he added, "I know India rightly cares about the international rule of law."
G20 Summit success in India
Prime Minister Sunak commended India's hosting of the G20 summit, describing it as a "huge success." He noted that the theme, 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' or 'One Family,' resonated with his personal experience as a proud Hindu.
"I am an example of the incredible living bridge that PM Modi described between the UK and India - almost 2 million like me in the UK of Indian origin. So, it is very special for me to be here as British Prime Minister in the country where my family are from," stated the Prime Minister.
He shared his hopes of visiting a Mandir during his stay in India and highlighted the importance of faith in providing resilience and strength.
Sunak said, "I think faith is something that helps everybody who has faith in their lives, particularly when you have these stressful jobs like I do. Having faith to give you resilience, to give you strength, is important."
Personal connection with India
Rishi Sunak's connection with India extends beyond diplomacy. He described his return to India as personally unique, as it is a country he loves dearly and the land of his family's and wife's roots. However, he emphasised that his primary purpose was to represent the UK and strengthen ties with India while playing a role in ensuring a successful G20 for the host nation.
PM Sunak stated, "I am incredibly proud to be seeing India doing so well"
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