External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated the new Indian Consulate in Manchester on March 8, 2025, highlighting the positive trajectory of India-U.K. relations. He noted the importance of the event coinciding with International Women’s Day and discussed the significance of a free trade agreement as a precursor to expanded ties. Mr. Jaishankar also urged U.K. universities to establish campuses in India and announced a new help center for non-resident Indians in the U.K.
In a significant development during his official tour of the U.K. and Ireland, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated a new Consulate in Manchester on March 8, 2025. This event coincided with International Women’s Day and was attended by notable figures including U.K. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner. Mr. Jaishankar highlighted a positive trend in India-U.K. relations at both the Consulate and the Lancashire Cricket Club, indicating a substantial upcoming expansion in bilateral ties.
Mr. Jaishankar remarked, “We are making up for a lot of things perhaps we could have and should have done earlier,” underscoring the significance of the Consulate’s inauguration. He noted that this event symbolizes the transformative shift in the India-U.K. relationship and anticipates considerable growth in the future. He added that the foundation of this relationship is deeply rooted in a complex historical context that necessitates a balanced view of its evolution.
While addressing the audience at the cricket club, the Minister acknowledged, “Every big, deep, important relationship is a mixed one,” urging a focus on the positive aspects and potential of the relationship. His remarks came against a backdrop of recent tensions, including a pro-Khalistan protest in London, which highlights challenges in relationship dynamics. In light of these challenges, Mr. Jaishankar emphasized the necessity for constructive dialogue.
Commenting on the free trade agreement (FTA), Mr. Jaishankar expressed that the current global landscape reinforces the need to strengthen ties, stating that efforts toward an FTA are increasingly accelerating. He described the FTA as a hallmark of the evolving bilateral relationship, particularly in response to geopolitical changes influenced by U.S. foreign policy.
During the inauguration, Mr. Jaishankar encouraged Manchester universities to establish campuses in India, pointing out the University of Southampton’s plans to enroll students at its upcoming Gurugram campus. He also announced the launch of a Non-Resident Indian Help Centre (Pravasiya Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra) in the U.K., which is the first of its kind in this region. Additionally, he hinted at potential direct flights from Manchester to New Delhi, noting that Indigo Airlines plans to begin direct operations to Manchester by July 2025.
In summary, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s inauguration of the new Consulate in Manchester marks a pivotal moment in India-U.K. relations. His emphasis on strengthening bilateral ties through initiatives like the FTA and educational partnerships reflects a commitment to fostering a deeper alignment between the two nations. Despite recent challenges, the Minister’s optimism for future developments signals a proactive approach towards enhancing diplomatic and economic collaboration.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
