UK-India Free Trade Agreement: A New Era of Strategic Partnership

On the inaugural day of the India Global Forum London, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and UK's Jonathan Reynolds defended the India-UK Free Trade Agreement. Addressing concerns on national insurance exemptions for short-term Indian workers, leaders stressed the agreement's mutual benefits and strategic importance for both nations.

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds have reaffirmed the strategic importance of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement during the opening day of the India Global Forum in London, addressing the criticisms around the deal.

The leaders focused on clearing misconceptions regarding the national insurance exemption for short-term Indian workers, stating that such provisions exist globally and contribute to improved business and worker mobility.

Reynolds emphasized that the agreement does not negatively impact British workers, whereas Goyal highlighted the potential for doubling bilateral trade within five years as both nations continue to complement and support each other's economic goals.

(With inputs from agencies.)