Overview
- India and the UK have agreed on 90% of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with final discussions focusing on contentious issues like whisky, automobiles, and visas.
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves co-chaired the 13th Economic and Financial Dialogue in London, reaffirming their commitment to a comprehensive partnership.
- India seeks faster visa processing for professionals, while the UK aims for reduced tariffs and expanded access for its financial and legal services sectors.
- India continues to position itself as a global investment hub, highlighting reforms and opportunities in banking, insurance, fintech, and its International Financial Services Centre at GIFT City.
- The ongoing negotiations align with broader strategies to strengthen bilateral ties amidst global trade uncertainties and shifting geopolitical priorities.