India, UK Hold First '2+2' Foreign And Defence Dialogue

India, UK Hold First '2+2' Foreign And Defence Dialogue: In a significant diplomatic development, the first India UK hold first '2+2' foreign and defence dialogue took place on 16th Oct 2023, highlighting the commitment of both nations to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership. This high-level dialogue focuses on various key areas of collaboration, including trade and investment, defense, critical technologies, civil aviation, health, and energy.

The dialogue included discussions on recent international developments, with a particular focus on the Indo-Pacific region. This demonstrated the intent of both nations to positively contribute to regional dynamics and also raised the possibility of enhancing cooperation in areas of counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), and maritime security.

India, UK 2+2' Foreign And Defence Dialogue

The '2+2' dialogue is a mechanism conducted by both India and the United Kingdom to discuss and review all aspects of their multifaceted partnership. During this dialogue, senior officials from both sides exchanged views on significant matters and international developments, particularly focusing on the Indo-Pacific region. The possibility of enhancing cooperation in anti-terrorism efforts was also discussed along with the considerations for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) and maritime security.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties: The India-UK relationship reached a significant milestone in May 2021 when it was elevated to the status of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This transformation occurred during a virtual summit held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his then-British counterpart, Boris Johnson. In this summit, both nations adopted a 10-year roadmap to expand their cooperation in several critical areas.

The ideas involved plans for advancing trade and the economy, strengthening defense and security collaborations, addressing climate change, and bettering people-to-people connections. These initiatives aimed to solidify the bilateral relationship in a comprehensive and forward-looking manner.

Key Stakeholders of the India, UK 2+2 Dialogue 2023

The senior official-level '2+2' dialogue was attended by prominent figures from both sides. The Indian delegation was co-chaired by Piyush Srivastava, Joint Secretary (Europe West) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and Vishwesh Negi, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) at the Ministry of Defence. On the British side, the delegation was co-chaired by Ben Mellor, India Director at the Indian Ocean Directorate in the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), and Lt General Rob Magowan, Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Finance, and Military Capability at the British Ministry of Defence.

India, UK 2+2 Dialogue 2023 Coverage

The India-UK '2+2' dialogue covered numerous field areas for collaboration, reflecting the multifaceted nature of their partnership. Key areas of focus included trade and investment, defense cooperation, critical and emerging technologies, civil aviation, health, energy, and cultural exchanges. This broad spectrum of discussions highlights the commitment of both nations to strengthen their engagement across various domains.

Shared Vision for the Indo-Pacific: One of the significant points of discussion during the dialogue was the Indo-Pacific region. Both India and the UK shared a vision for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and expressed their commitment to an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. By discussing recent developments in this region, they underscored their determination to contribute positively to regional dynamics.

Future Prospects of India-UK Relationship: The India-UK '2+2' dialogue comes as the two nations explore the possibility of a visit to India by the British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, later in the month. This visit, if materialized, is expected to further enhance bilateral ties and provide a platform for high-level discussions.

In conclusion, the first '2+2' foreign and defense dialogue between India and the UK demonstrates the intent of both nations to build upon their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. By addressing various aspects of their relationship, these dialogues strengthen diplomatic, economic, and security ties, positioning India and the UK as important strategic partners in an evolving global landscape.