In recent news, the United Kingdom (UK) and India have jointly decided to initiate a Young Professionals Exchange in 2023. The program aims to provide 3000 degree-educated Indians aged between 18 and 30 with jobs in the UK for up to two years. This bilateral scheme, set to kick off in early 2023, will operate reciprocally.
Significance of the Indo-UK Partnership
The partnership between the UK and India benefits both countries in significant ways. For the UK, India provides a strategic connection within the Indo-Pacific in terms of market share and defence collaboration. This resulted in the signing of the Defence and International Security Partnership in 2015. A successful Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India would contribute significantly towards the UK’s ‘Global Britain’ initiative. Since Brexit, the UK’s goal has been to broaden its markets beyond Europe, taking advantage of the booming economies in the Indo-Pacific region.
India provides a golden opportunity for the UK to secure its global standing. Conversely, the UK plays an essential role as a regional power in the Indo-Pacific for India. With naval facilities in Oman, Singapore, Bahrain, Kenya and British Indian Ocean Territory, the UK is strategically positioned. It has also pledged $70 million in British International Investment funding to promote renewable energy usage in India, helping develop solar power and build renewable energy infrastructure.
Major Bilateral Issues Between the UK and India
Despite the mutual advantages, several issues need addressing. High on India’s agenda is the extradition of Indian economic offenders currently residing in the UK. Individuals such as Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi have leveraged the British legal system to evade the Indian law, despite clear Indian cases against them warranting their extradition. Moreover, India hopes to secure easy market access for its fisheries, pharmaceuticals and agricultural products in the UK, along with duty concessions for labour-intensive exports.
The Influence of Historical Legacies and Community Dynamics
The British influence on historical and present-day issues in the subcontinent, specifically regarding Jammu and Kashmir, creates complications for the bilateral relations. In the UK, particularly in areas such as Mirpur in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, there is a significant Muslim community from the subcontinent. This dynamic creates further discord, given the sensitive political dynamics in these regions.
Additionally, despite India’s rise as a global power, some sections of the British population still struggle to accept this shift. As India continues to strengthen economically, it is crucial to challenge outdated imperial attitudes and embrace modern relations based on mutual respect and cooperation.
Looking Ahead: A Mutual Path Forward
Building on the strong foundation of shared culture, history and language, there are immense opportunities for the two nations to deepen their relationship. In light of changing global circumstances, both countries need to recognize their interdependence to achieve broader economic and strategic goals.
