TAGS :
- Subtotal:
- $130.00
UK CDS Visit MIght Improve Ties with India
The visit of two high-ranking British armed forces officers, the British Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Tony Radakin and Royal Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston, to New Delhi, India is being seen as a British effort to strengthen ties with India, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
Admiral Radakin had three major meetings with top Indian defence officials, including the Defence Secretary and the Chief of Defence staff. Air Chief Marshal Wigston also met with the Indian Chief of Defence staff.
Several recent events have contributed to strengthening ties between the two countries, including the visit of the UK's Minister of State for Defence during Aero India, the recent presence of two UK warships in India, and the Indian Air Force's participation in Exercise Cobra Warrior in England.
Despite recent security concerns and the disturbance caused by Khalistanis at the Indian High Commission in London, the visit of two high-ranking armed forces officers at approximately the same time is being perceived as an indication of Britain's efforts to bolster its ties with India. Furthermore, the Indian government has refuted claims that the Khalistan issue has derailed discussions for a free trade agreement with the British, clarifying that talks are still ongoing. In fact, an Indian delegation is scheduled to visit London later this month to continue the negotiations.