Boris Johnson Seeks Trade Deal with India Amidst Ukraine Uncertainty

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has pledged to pursue a trade deal with India "by Diwali in October," while avoiding any public criticism of India's stance on Ukraine during his recent visit to New Delhi. Johnson's dogged pursuit of a trade deal reflects his desire to demonstrate a focus on global issues beyond his domestic troubles. The Indian premier, Narendra Modi, expressed a similar commitment to strengthening economic ties, suggesting a possible trade agreement by the end of the year. This development could have significant implications for the UK, particularly with regards to immigration and workforce demands.

Key Takeaways:

• Boris Johnson has instructed British negotiators to push for a trade deal with India by Diwali in October, a date set by a significant Hindu festival.
• Johnson's visit to India was characterized by a deliberate avoidance of public criticism of India's stance on Ukraine, despite the UK's support for the Ukrainian people.
• India's premier, Narendra Modi, has expressed a desire to strengthen the "living bridge" between the two nations, suggesting increased exchange of students, professionals, and workers.
• Modi has hinted at the desire for greater access to Britain for Indian services, rice, and textiles exports, in addition to increased technical education partnerships.
• The UK is short of hundreds of thousands of skilled workers, particularly in IT and programming, and Johnson has opened the door to more work opportunities being issued to Indians.
• British universities have announced plans to establish sites in India, which could further enhance educational exchange and cooperation.

Statistics:

• 1.6 million people of Indian origin live in the UK (as stated by Modi).
• Britain is short of hundreds of thousands of skilled workers, particularly in IT and programming (as stated by Johnson).
• India is seeking to increase exports of rice and textiles to the UK.
• A trade agreement between the UK and India is expected within the year, with potential benefits including increased whisky exports, increased professional service exchanges, and greater access for Indian services and goods.

Sources:

• The Times of India
• Statement by Harsh Vardhan Shringla, India's foreign secretary