Yvette Cooper, the UK Foreign Secretary, has concluded her official visit to India and China as confirmed by a statement from the UK government. The purpose of her trip was to engage with key global partners and ensure that the UK plays a central role in discussions surrounding significant international issues. The statement emphasised that the UK cannot distance itself from global matters through a cancellation approach in foreign policy.

During her visit, Cooper underscored the importance of pursuing dialogues with major global players, asserting that these conversations should grow cooperation in areas of mutual interest, while also addressing points of disagreement. This approach aligns with the UK’s international strategy that prioritises robust engagement on the world stage, fostering growth and security for UK citizens.

Meetings and Discussions in New Delhi

Cooper arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, where she engaged with the Indian government on critical topics impacting UK prosperity. Her discussions included elements of maritime security, economic growth, and measures to safeguard supply chains against global economic uncertainties. Meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar were central to these discussions, reinforcing the strategic framework set out in Prime Minister Modi’s Vision 2035.

A notable focus of her meetings was on the Strait of Hormuz, particularly in light of the implications its potential closure poses to international shipping routes. In this context, Cooper co-launched a new Regional Maritime Security Centre of Excellence, aimed at enhancing the UK’s collaborative efforts with India in the realm of maritime security. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to regional stability and resilience against international disruptions.

Cooper also highlighted the importance of critical minerals in her talks with Indian officials, recognising their essential role in current and future technological developments. The UK has expressed a commitment to partnering with India in creating more resilient and diverse supply chains essential for various industries, including electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.

Launch of the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory

During the visit, Cooper met with G Kishan Reddy, India’s Minister for Coal and Mines, to unveil the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory. This initiative is a flagship aspect of the UK-India Technology Security Initiative and features an innovative artificial intelligence tool that provides real-time insights into global critical mineral flows and highlights potential vulnerabilities in supply chains.

To support this project, India has pledged 1.2 million Euros for the establishment of a satellite observatory campus at the Indian Institute of Technology in Dhanbad, in collaboration with the University of Cambridge. This observatory is anticipated to play a pivotal role in bolstering both nations’ capabilities in tracking and managing critical mineral resources effectively.

Overall, the discussions and collaborations forged during Cooper’s visit to India are poised to strengthen UK-India relations, particularly in sectors that are vital for both countries’ economic growth and security in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.

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