Boris Johnson in India to discuss trade and security next week

Downing Street announced on Saturday that British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will travel to India next weekend for a meeting with his counterpart Narendra Modi and trade and strategic discussions, amid differences over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Read alsoIndia is torn between Moscow and Europe on the issue of sanctions against Russia

“As our peace and prosperity are threatened by authoritarian states, it is imperative that democracies and friends remain together”Boris Johnson said in a statement. “India, a major economic power and the world’s largest democracy, is a key strategic partner for the United Kingdom in these turbulent times.”he added.

He explained that his visit focuses on “What is the real problem?” for the residents of the two countries, From job creation and economic growth to energy security and defense.

The United Kingdom and India have completely different reactions to the situation in Ukraine: if London was escalating economic sanctions against Russia and was on the front line of armed support for Kaif, then Narendra Modi’s government was careful not to condemn the Russian invasion. Publicly and join in voting for this purpose in the United Nations.

India calls Moscow a“A long time friend” Based on “mainstay” Because of its foreign policy “Strategic Partnership” for its national security.

On April 22 in New Delhi, Boris Johnson and Narendra Modi will be held according to Downing Street “in-depth discussions” On the one hand “strategic defense”And Diplomatic and Economic Partnershipin order to “Strengthening our close partnership and intensifying security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region”an area at the forefront of British diplomacy after Brexit.

The day before, Boris Johnson is expected to arrive in Ahmedabad, the main city of Gujarat, the state from which half of the Anglo-Indian population of the United Kingdom, the former colonial power, originates. According to Downing Street, it should announce a major investment there in sectors “keys”the UK’s source of jobs and growth, Plus a new collaboration. in the fields of science, health and technology.

Boris Johnson also hopes to push forward the negotiations to try to conclude a free trade agreement with India, which according to London forecasts will reach 28 billion pounds (33.8 billion euros) per year by 2035 and will lead to up to three billion pounds. (3.6 billion euros) of additional revenue in the UK.