india uk fta: Cricket diplomacy: UK PM Rishi Sunak might go to India for FTA talks, watch India-England match in Lucknow

The invitation to Sunak for a second go to to India is geared toward having extra detailed discussions on the FTA and different bilateral issues. Diplomatic sources have indicated that October 28 is being thought-about as a attainable date for the go to. If the go to takes place, Sunak may additionally journey to Lucknow to attend the India-England cricket match on October 29.

A supply, talking on the situation of anonymity, instructed TOI that whereas nothing is ultimate but, they’re hopeful of creating extra progress within the FTA negotiations earlier than the go to. Nonetheless, the go to itself won’t be contingent upon the completion of the FTA negotiations. Each side are dedicated to taking the required time to handle the remaining contentious points, comparable to mobility of individuals and import obligation concessions on sure objects. Even when the settlement isn’t finalized earlier than the go to, it’s anticipated to expedite the negotiations.

Each India and the UK are keen to succeed in a deal within the coming months earlier than their respective elections subsequent 12 months. Initially, the 2 international locations had set a deadline of Diwali in April 2022 for concluding the FTA. Nonetheless, attributable to variations on sure points and political developments within the UK, the deal couldn’t be finalized.