Celebrating the “Living Bridge”: PM Modi Lauds Indian Diaspora’s Pivotal Role in UK Ties

London, UK – Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his impactful two-day official visit to the United Kingdom, delivered a resounding tribute to the Indian diaspora, affectionately terming them a “living bridge” connecting the two nations. His address transcended the usual acknowledgments, emphasizing that the community’s contributions extend far beyond mere cultural exchange, encompassing “creativity, commitment, and character.” This powerful statement came amidst significant diplomatic engagements, including the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the unveiling of “Vision 2035.”

Beyond Curry: The Multifaceted Contribution of the Indian Diaspora UK

PM Modi’s address, delivered during a joint press statement with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, highlighted the profound impact of the Indian diaspora. He remarked that the people of Indian origin in the UK have not just brought their culinary heritage but have also enriched the UK’s prosperous economy, culture, sports, and public service with their innovation, dedication, and integrity. This assertion resonated deeply, recognizing the community as a dynamic force driving bilateral relations.

Key takeaways from PM Modi’s statements regarding the Indian diaspora UK:

• A “Living Bridge”: The diaspora serves as a vital human connection, fostering understanding and strengthening bonds between India and the UK.
• Beyond Culinary Contributions: While Indian cuisine is celebrated, PM Modi underscored the community’s broader influence in creativity, commitment, and character, making them integral to the UK’s diverse fabric.
• Economic Impact: Their immense contributions are evident in the UK’s thriving economy, with numerous Indian diaspora-owned businesses and professionals contributing significantly.
• Cultural and Social Enrichment: The diaspora’s presence is profoundly felt in the UK’s cultural landscape, sports, and public service, adding vibrancy and talent.

Forging a Future: Trade, Technology, and the Indian Diaspora UK

The Prime Minister’s visit was marked by crucial strategic developments aimed at bolstering India-UK ties.

• Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA):
  • This landmark agreement, signed in the presence of both leaders, marks a new chapter in the India-UK economic partnership.
  • It aims to boost the movement of goods and services, providing unprecedented market access for Indian goods with zero-duty access on 99% of tariff lines.
  • The agreement is expected to unlock export opportunities for labor-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather, footwear, gems and jewellery, marine products, and toys, generating large-scale employment and empowering MSMEs.
  • It also facilitates greater market access for UK products in India, making goods like medical devices and aerospace components more affordable for Indian consumers.
  • The CETA is anticipated to significantly enhance investments and create new employment opportunities in both countries.
  • A “Double Contribution Convention” was also agreed upon to inject new energy into service sectors like technology and finance, promoting ease and confidence of doing business.
• Vision 2035: A Strategic Roadmap:
  • PM Modi and PM Starmer unveiled Vision 2035, a long-term roadmap designed to give new momentum to their comprehensive strategic partnership.
  • This vision will form the basis of a strong, trustworthy, and ambitious collaboration across critical fields:
    • Technology: From AI and critical minerals to semiconductors and cybersecurity, a commitment to “create the future together” was affirmed.
    • Defence: A defence industrial roadmap has been drawn up to strengthen partnership in security.
    • Climate: Joint efforts will continue in addressing global climate challenges.
    • Education: Six UK universities are set to open campuses in India, with the University of Southampton having already inaugurated its Gurugram campus.
    • People-to-people connections: Further strengthening the bonds exemplified by the Indian diaspora UK.

Cricket, Common Ground, and the Indian Diaspora UK’s Role

In a delightful analogy, PM Modi likened the India-UK relationship to a game of cricket, a passion shared by both nations. He stated, “There may be a swing and a miss at times, but we always play with a straight bat. We are committed to building a high-scoring, solid partnership.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect that defines the strengthened ties, with the Indian diaspora UK playing an indispensable role in fostering this enduring partnership.

The Prime Minister also addressed global concerns, reaffirming India’s commitment to a rules-based international order and emphasizing that forces with extremist ideologies should not be allowed to misuse democratic freedoms. He also highlighted intensifying cooperation on the extradition of economic offenders, underlining a shared commitment to accountability.

The visit concluded with PM Modi thanking UK PM Starmer for his hospitality and extending an invitation to visit India, reinforcing the strong diplomatic and cultural bonds between the two nations, underpinned by the vibrant Indian diaspora UK.