The United Kingdom has voiced strong support for India's ongoing battle against cross-border terrorism, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. This message of solidarity was conveyed by UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy during his recent visit to New Delhi, where he met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
During his meeting with Prime Minister Modi on Saturday, June 7, 2025, Foreign Secretary Lammy unequivocally condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. He conveyed the UK's resolute support for India's efforts to combat terrorism emanating from across its borders. Prime Minister Modi, in turn, emphasized the critical need for decisive international action against terrorism and the entities that provide support to terrorist organizations.
The discussions between the UK Foreign Secretary and Indian leaders took place against the backdrop of heightened diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and London. Lammy's visit served as an opportunity to review and further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the UK, encompassing various sectors such as trade and investment, defense and security, technology, innovation, and clean energy.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, during his meeting with Lammy, underscored India's unwavering "zero tolerance" policy towards terrorism. He conveyed India's expectation that its partners understand this principle and refrain from equating the perpetrators of terrorist acts with their victims. Jaishankar also expressed gratitude to the UK government for its condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and its continued support for India's counter-terrorism endeavors.
In addition to addressing the issue of terrorism, the discussions also focused on the successful conclusion of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the Double Contribution Convention. Prime Minister Modi expressed satisfaction with the constructive engagement between both sides, which led to this significant milestone. The FTA is expected to unlock new economic opportunities for both countries, fostering increased trade and investment flows.
The deepening of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership was also lauded, with both leaders acknowledging the growing momentum in bilateral ties. They welcomed the ongoing collaboration under the Technology Security Initiative, recognizing its potential to cultivate trusted and secure innovation ecosystems.
Foreign Secretary Lammy's visit to India followed his trip to Islamabad in May, where he advocated for an enduring ceasefire and dialogue between India and Pakistan. However, in his discussions in New Delhi, he reiterated the UK's recognition of the fragility of the situation, particularly in light of the persistent threat of terrorism aimed at destabilizing India.
The UK's support for India's fight against cross-border terrorism underscores the shared commitment of both nations to global security and stability. As strategic partners, India and the UK are working together to address common challenges, including terrorism, and to promote a more peaceful and prosperous world.
