UK delivering on new FTA with India, says Rishi Sunak

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 13: New Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak leaves 10 Downing Street on February 13, 2020 in London, England. The Prime Minister makes adjustments to his Cabinet now Brexit has been completed. (Photo by Peter Summers/Getty Images)

London:

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reiterated the UK’s commitment to a free trade agreement (FTA) with India as part of the country’s wider focus on enhancing ties with the strategic Indo-Pacific region and standing up to competitors with “robust pragmatism”.

Delivering his first major foreign policy speech since taking charge at 10 Downing Street last month at the Lord Mayor of London’s Banquet on Monday night, the British Indian leader reflected upon his heritage and committed to promoting British values of “freedom and openness” around the world.

He also pledged to “do things differently” far removed from the so-called “golden era” with China, which he said poses a “systemic challenge” to British values and interests.