Senior officials from India and the United Kingdom convened in New Delhi on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, for the annual UK-India Foreign Office Consultations, reinforcing their joint dedication to strengthening what they view as one of the world's most vital bilateral partnerships. The discussions were co-led by Sir Oliver Robbins, the Permanent Under-Secretary at the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and India's Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri. This marks Sir Oliver's first official visit to India since assuming his role as Head of the UK's Diplomatic Service in January 2025.
The primary objective of the consultations was to assess the advancements achieved under the UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has reportedly gained considerable momentum since the previous round of talks held in London in 2024. Both nations have expressed satisfaction with the "significant breakthroughs" observed across the entire spectrum of their partnership.
A key highlight coming just before the talks was the announcement of a landmark trade deal on May 6, 2025. This trade agreement is poised to substantially boost bilateral trade, thereby fostering job creation and economic expansion in both the UK and India. Experts predict that this deal could potentially double the current trade volume to an impressive $120 billion by 2030. Described as a "historic milestone" in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the FTA is expected to stimulate trade, investment, innovation, and employment opportunities in both economies.
The Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) also included the inaugural Strategic Exports and Technology Cooperation Dialogue (SETCD), focusing on export controls to facilitate enhanced technology collaboration within strategic sectors.
Both sides reiterated their commitment to realizing the shared vision of Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Keir Starmer, which aims for an ambitious and forward-looking partnership in the coming decade. This vision encompasses several critical areas, including trade, investment, defense and security, counter-terrorism efforts, technology, science and innovation, green energy, climate action, healthcare, education, and stronger people-to-people connections.
In addition to trade and economic cooperation, the discussions also addressed regional and global issues of mutual interest, such as the ongoing situation in Russia-Ukraine, developments in the Indo-Pacific region, and the broader West Asia landscape. India conveyed its appreciation for the UK government's support in the fight against terrorism, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration in this critical area.
Looking ahead, both India and the UK have agreed to maintain regular communication and exchanges at both political and senior official levels. The next Foreign Office Consultations are scheduled to take place in London at a mutually convenient time in 2026, signifying the ongoing commitment to strengthening and deepening the strategic partnership between the two nations.
