In a recent article published in ‘The Daily Telegraph,’ Dominic Raab, a close ally of British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and former deputy prime minister, has called on the UK government to enhance its efforts in fostering a stronger partnership with India. Raab, who led Sunak’s leadership campaign and served as Foreign Secretary before stepping down due to bullying allegations, believes that the UK can achieve more within the bilateral relationship, especially with the UK’s first Prime Minister of Indian heritage, Narendra Modi, now in power.
Raab highlights India’s significant comparative advantage in the field of technology, particularly in light of Prime Minister Modi’s recent high-profile visit to the United States, during which several significant deals were struck. He emphasizes the need for the UK to capitalize on India’s technological prowess and forge closer ties in this domain. Raab’s remarks reflect a growing recognition within the British political sphere of the potential benefits and opportunities that a robust UK-India partnership can offer.
The British government has been actively seeking to strengthen its ties with India, recognizing the country’s status as a global economic powerhouse and a key player in various sectors. The appointment of Rishi Sunak, who has Indian roots, as the British Prime Minister was seen as a positive step toward deepening the UK-India relationship. Sunak’s personal connection to India, along with his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, has raised expectations for a closer partnership.
Dominic Raab’s call for the UK government to up its game in maximizing the dividends of a closer UK-India relationship comes at a crucial time. India’s recent achievements in the technology sector have garnered international attention, with the country emerging as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. By tapping into India’s technological expertise, the UK can benefit from collaborative ventures, knowledge-sharing, and increased trade opportunities.
During Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the United States, several landmark deals were signed, underscoring the potential for fruitful collaborations between India and international partners. Raab urges the British government to take note of these developments and adopt a proactive approach to engage with India more effectively. He emphasizes that the UK should leverage India’s growing influence and prominence on the global stage to foster a deeper and mutually beneficial partnership.
Raab’s commentary reflects the sentiment that closer ties with India can bolster the UK’s post-Brexit ambitions. With the UK looking to redefine its position in the global landscape, forging strategic alliances with key countries becomes imperative. India’s vast market, skilled workforce, and technological advancements present attractive opportunities for British businesses. By strengthening bilateral trade and investment, the UK can expand its economic horizons and diversify its partnerships.
In recent years, both India and the UK have shown a willingness to deepen their relationship through various initiatives. The launch of the UK-India Tech Partnership and the Enhanced Trade Partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to collaboration in areas such as technology, innovation, and trade. However, Raab’s call for the UK to up its game signifies that there is still untapped potential that can be harnessed for mutual benefit.
As the UK navigates its post-Brexit path, developing a closer partnership with India has become a priority. Dominic Raab’s appeal to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and capitalizing on this relationship. By recognizing India’s technological prowess and its potential to drive economic growth, the UK can position itself as a valued partner and tap into the benefits of a closer alliance. The ball is now in the court of the British government to seize the opportunity and elevate the UK-India partnership to new heights.
