India and UK hold inaugural ‘2+2’ dialogue, Paving the way for potential Rishi Sunak visit

India and the United Kingdom convened their first ‘2+2’ foreign affairs and defense dialogue in New Delhi, a critical step in strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership. The dialogue, featuring senior defense and foreign policy officials from both nations, explored avenues for cooperation in a wide range of areas.

The 2+2 dialogue, which typically involves discussions at the level of senior officials or ministers, is a framework India reserves for its closest strategic allies, including the United States, Japan, Australia, and Russia. The meeting in New Delhi reflects the growing importance of India-UK relations and their shared interests.

During the discussions, both sides deliberated on possibilities for collaboration in various domains, including trade and investment, defense, critical and emerging technologies, civil aviation, healthcare, energy, culture, and enhancing people-to-people connections. The two nations are keen to expand their cooperation in these sectors, with an eye on fostering economic growth and innovation.

Furthermore, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as well as maritime security, were on the agenda. The officials shared their perspectives on recent international developments, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, in line with their vision for a “free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.” Both India and the UK are committed to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

The ‘2+2’ dialogue serves as a comprehensive mechanism to review and discuss all aspects of the India-UK strategic partnership. The discussions were marked by satisfaction on both sides regarding the frequency of high-level political exchanges, which have provided valuable guidance and momentum to their multifaceted relationship.

The officials also expressed contentment with the progress made in various areas outlined in the India-UK Roadmap 2030, encompassing economic cooperation, defense and security, people-to-people ties, and regional and multilateral collaboration.

Leading the Indian delegation was Piyush Srivastava, Joint Secretary (Europe West) in the External Affairs Ministry, and Vishwesh Negi, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) in the Defense Ministry. On the UK side, the co-chairs were Ben Mellor, India Director in the Indian Ocean Directorate of the Foreign Ministry, and Lt. Gen. Rob Magowan, Deputy Chief of Defense Staff (Finance and Military Capability).

The outcomes of the ‘2+2’ dialogue will be reported to higher bilateral mechanisms, such as foreign office consultations and defense consultative groups. The two nations have already planned their second meeting of the dialogue, scheduled to take place in the UK in 2024.

This landmark dialogue underscores the growing importance of the India-UK relationship on the global stage and sets the stage for potential high-level visits, including that of UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak, in the near future. As both nations continue to strengthen their ties, the world watches closely to see how this partnership will shape future international dynamics.