The UK has clarified that student visas will not be part of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement negotiations, which will focus on temporary business mobility visas. Government officials stress the importance of reaching a quality agreement over a swift conclusion, amid calls from peers for urgent action given India’s emerging economic status.
The UK government has confirmed that student visas will not be included in the ongoing negotiations for the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Only temporary business mobility visas will be under consideration during these discussions, as outlined during a recent House of Lords debate attended by various peers seeking clarity on the negotiations that resumed following Secretary Jonathan Reynolds’ visit to India.
During the debate, Government Whip Lord Sonny Leong highlighted the significance of the bilateral relationship between India and the UK, noting cultural intersections that include shared interests like the Premier League and Bollywood. He stated, “Our negotiations consider only business mobility, so they cover only relevant business visas, which are, by their nature, limited, temporary and for specific purposes. This is also beneficial to UK exporters delivering services abroad.”
When questioned about a timeline for the FTA, Lord Leong emphasized the government’s commitment to pursuing a beneficial deal rather than rushing the process. He remarked that prioritizing the quality of the agreement would serve the UK’s best interests in the long term. The UK-India trading relationship was valued at GBP 41 billion last year, supporting nearly 600,000 jobs.
Listeners expressed urgency regarding the negotiations, emphasizing the potential economic impact of a successful treaty. Lord Sahota articulated that trade is critical for growth and opportunity, urging the government to act swiftly. Meanwhile, Lord Bilimoria advocated for expanding the UK’s connections in the Indo-Pacific region by joining the Quad alliance. He emphasized the importance of finalizing the FTA quickly, as three Diwalis have passed since negotiations began.
Baroness Verma suggested the appointment of trade envoys to facilitate relations with India, questioning the lack of dedicated representatives in such a significant market. Discussion of the FTA was ongoing, with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressing cautious optimism following conversations with British officials regarding the potential for an agreement.
The FTA negotiations mark a significant focus for both countries, aiming to cultivate stronger trade relations and enhance economic prospects.
In summary, the UK-India Free Trade Agreement negotiations will exclude student visas, focusing solely on temporary business mobility visas. The UK government emphasizes quality over speed in these discussions while acknowledging the significant economic potential of the bilateral relationship. Urgent calls from British Indian peers highlight the widespread agreement on the importance of finalizing this agreement for mutual benefit. Moreover, suggestions to enhance diplomatic efforts signal a desire for deeper engagement with India as it evolves into a major global economy.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
