External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated a new Consulate in Manchester, emphasizing a strengthening India-U.K. relationship. Key officials attended the ceremony, which aligned with International Women’s Day. Jaishankar highlighted a future-focused approach through initiatives like a free trade agreement and educational partnerships while addressing recent challenges to bilateral relations.
During his official visit to the U.K. and Ireland, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated a new Consulate in Manchester on March 8, 2025. This event coincided with International Women’s Day and marked a significant positive evolution in India-U.K. relations. Key figures present included U.K. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West.
Mr. Jaishankar underscored the occasion’s significance by stating, “There is nothing more fitting than to have a Consul General inaugurate her Consulate” as Indian Consul General Vishakha Yaduvanshi took the lead. He noted the inauguration represented a change in India-U.K. relations and highlighted the anticipation of future growth.
Speaking at the Lancashire Cricket Club, Mr. Jaishankar acknowledged the historical complexity underlying India-U.K. relations. He remarked, “Every big, deep, important relationship is a mixed one. I think it’s important to pick the good side, look for the possibilities there,” while pledging to address existing issues.
Mr. Jaishankar’s visit follows a recent incident in London involving pro-Khalistan demonstrators, prompting the Indian government to formally protest to the U.K. High Commissioner in New Delhi. This incident underscores challenges in sustaining effective bilateral relations, prompting discussions on a reset in November 2023 during Mr. Jaishankar’s last visit.
Jaishankar elaborated on enhancing the bilateral relationship by focusing on a free trade agreement (FTA) amidst global geopolitical shifts. He deemed the FTA a symbol of the evolving India-U.K. partnership and emphasized its potential for growth.
Moreover, the Minister encouraged Manchester’s universities to establish campuses in India, noting the University of Southampton’s plans to enroll students in Gurugram. Additionally, he announced the launch of a Non-Resident Indian Help Centre in the U.K., the first in its region.
Lastly, Jaishankar hinted at the likelihood of direct flights from Manchester to New Delhi, furthering connectivity between India and the U.K. with Indigo set to begin direct services to Amsterdam and Manchester in July 2025.
The inauguration of the new Consulate in Manchester reflects the strengthening of India-U.K. relations, marked by collaborative initiatives such as the anticipated free trade agreement and university partnerships. Despite challenges from recent incidents, the dialogue continues to evolve, with positive expectations for future growth and connectivity between the two nations.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
