New Delhi, India – India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held a crucial meeting with former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Delhi on Tuesday to explore new avenues for strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations. Their discussions focused on financial partnerships, global economic policies, and the role of emerging markets in shaping the future of international trade.
Advancing India-UK Economic Relations
Sitharaman emphasized the importance of leveraging Commonwealth ties to amplify shared interests on the G7 platform. She reiterated India’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of developing nations, particularly in the Global South, are recognized in global economic policies. Her remarks aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing efforts to advocate for economic equity at international forums.
Strengthening Global Cooperation
With increasing geopolitical uncertainties, India has been at the forefront of supporting developing economies. Under Modi’s leadership, India played a key role in securing the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20, further strengthening the representation of emerging economies in global decision-making. During the meeting, Sitharaman and Sunak explored ways to enhance financial collaboration between India and the UK, focusing on market-driven solutions and strategic alliances.
India’s Role in AI and Sustainable Development
The discussion also touched on artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainable development. India has been vocal about the need for fair and transparent AI governance, discouraging monopolization by developed nations. As one of the early adopters of AI-driven policies, India continues to promote responsible AI through its ‘AI for All’ initiative.
Sustainable development was another key agenda, with India reinforcing its commitment to clean energy and environmental responsibility. Modi’s energy policies prioritize accessibility, affordability, and sustainability, aligning with India’s long-term vision of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070.
Ongoing Diplomatic Engagements
The meeting followed a similar discussion between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Sunak a day earlier, reflecting the continued diplomatic efforts to strengthen India-UK relations. Jaishankar highlighted their productive exchange on social media, expressing optimism about future collaborations between the two nations.
This series of engagements underscores the growing economic and strategic partnership between India and the UK, setting the stage for deeper cooperation in finance, technology, and sustainable development.
