Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi (SHP)
New Delhi, Jun 24: UK has failed to adjust its strategy in order to fit India’s enhanced influence and power on World stage. A necessity for better visa and immigration policies for Indian tourists, students and professionals was felt, it would significantly help to strengthen the bilateral relationship.
It was observed that India faced tougher norms than a non-democratic country like China. The Houses of Parliament were looking forward to launch a UK-India week 2019. Several issues will be addressed here, especially means and ways of strengthening the bilateral ties.
An inquiry report stated that UK had lost ground in attracting Indian students and tourists. These activities not only help in building the economy but also enhance the image of the country.
The Foreign and Commonwealth office is entrusted with ensuring improvement of overall relationship with India. The report pointed that once UK exits European Union (EU), complacency and historical connections will not help in restoring the bilateral relationships with India.
The report follows an inquiry of ‘Global Britain and India’, launched by the House of Commons, ‘cross-party’ Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC), in July last year. It explored the India-UK relationship in the context of Britain’s impending exit from the EU.
Besides, The Indian Ocean was recognized as vital for closer defence and security cooperation between the two countries.
Tom Tugendhat, MP of Conservative Party and Chair of the FAC, raised the point of when the UK government failed to apologize for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on its 100th anniversary in April, this year. Tom recalls it as an opportunity which should not have been missed.
Further, he said, “The government cannot miss an opportunity to partner with India, amidst the changes in the structure of global trade and dispute resolution. Trade, security, a shared commitment to the rules-based international system, these are all factors in our growing and evolving partnership.”
The report's findings are expected to be featured heavily during the UK-India Week, organized by UK-based media house India Inc. It will also include a high-profile Leaders Summit in Buckinghamshire in south-east England.