India and the United Kingdom have taken a significant step towards strengthening their strategic cooperation by endorsing the “India-UK Vision 2035” roadmap. This comprehensive plan, endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer during their meeting in London, aims to deepen ties across a spectrum of sectors including agriculture, clean energy, trade, technology, education, and defence.
The roadmap builds upon the foundation of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership announced earlier and sets ambitious targets for both nations. It is bolstered by the successful signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which is expected to enhance shared prosperity beyond mere economic cooperation.
Agriculture and Biotechnology
In the realm of agriculture, the partnership focuses on innovation and biotechnology to promote sustainable and climate-resilient farming. This collaboration aims to boost food security, support rural development, and foster green solutions through shared innovation. The emphasis on sustainable agriculture is particularly timely, given the global challenges posed by climate change and the need for resilient food systems.
Technology and Innovation
The technology sector is another key area of cooperation, with plans to collaborate on cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, 6G, semiconductors, biotechnology, space, and quantum research. The establishment of new platforms like the UK-India AI Centre and the Connectivity Innovation Centre underscores the commitment to accelerating innovation and digital inclusion. This collaboration is poised to position both countries at the forefront of technological advancements, driving economic growth and creating high-skilled jobs.
Climate and Clean Energy
The climate and clean energy partnership is a critical component of the roadmap, reflecting both countries’ commitment to achieving net-zero emissions. Cooperation in renewable energy, including offshore wind and solar projects, civil nuclear initiatives, carbon credit markets, and green financing, is expected to drive significant progress towards sustainable energy goals. The Net Zero Innovation Partnership will support startups and scalable clean technologies, further enhancing the impact of this collaboration.
Economic Growth and Trade
Economically, the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is set to be a game-changer, driving trade, jobs, and investment. Regular platforms such as the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO), the Economic and Financial Dialogue, and the Financial Markets Dialogue will be instrumental in supporting reforms and unlocking growth in sectors like health, critical minerals, and financial services. The ongoing talks on a Bilateral Investment Treaty add another layer of economic cooperation, promising to enhance investment flows between the two countries.
Defence and Security
Defence ties will be strengthened through a 10-year industrial roadmap that includes the co-development of jet engines and electric propulsion systems. Enhanced joint military exercises, boosted maritime cooperation, and upgraded security dialogues are also part of the plan. Counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and tackling cross-border crime remain key priorities, reflecting the shared commitment to maintaining regional and global security.
Education and Skills Development
In the education sector, the UK plans to facilitate the opening of campuses of leading universities in India. Dual degrees, student exchanges, and mutual recognition of qualifications are also part of the plan. The India-UK Green Skills Partnership will focus on developing green skills, aligning with the broader goals of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The Vision 2035 document will be reviewed annually and guided through regular high-level ministerial meetings, ensuring that the partnership remains dynamic and responsive to evolving needs and challenges. Both sides reaffirmed their support for multilateral reforms and a rules-based global order, underscoring their commitment to shaping a stable and prosperous international landscape.
This roadmap not only sets a clear path for India-UK relations but also has far-reaching implications for global cooperation in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. By leveraging their respective strengths and resources, India and the UK are poised to make significant strides in innovation, sustainability, and economic growth, setting a precedent for international partnerships in the 21st century.