Post-ceasefire with Pakistan, India Partners with UK on Terrorism Combat

On Saturday, India engaged in discussions with Britain to expand cooperation on “counter-terrorism” following recent skirmishes with Pakistan, according to UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who spoke to Reuters after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Lammy is the most prominent Western official to visit both New Delhi and Islamabad since a ceasefire was established last month, ending the worst clashes between the South Asian neighbors in nearly thirty years.

The renewed tensions began in April after the deaths of 26 individuals in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, which New Delhi attributed to “terrorists” supported by Pakistan—a claim that Islamabad refuted. India subsequently targeted what it described as “terrorist infrastructure” in Pakistan, leading to an escalation that culminated in a ceasefire on May 10.

“We aim to maintain stability in the region, while acknowledging the inherent fragility, especially in light of terrorism intended to destabilize India,” Lammy mentioned in an interview at the British High Commissioner’s residence in New Delhi.

“We are eager to sustain our partnership with India regarding counter-terrorism initiatives.”

While Lammy discussed future steps with both Modi and Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, he did not disclose specific details.

Last year, discussions between India and Britain centered on combating terrorism financing, enhancing collaboration among law enforcement and judicial entities, as well as information sharing.

Moreover, Lammy indicated discussions about boosting trade between their economies, which rank fifth and sixth globally. They recently wrapped up negotiations for a free trade agreement early last month.

“I know Prime Minister Keir Starmer is very much looking forward to visiting India soon to sign the free trade agreement,” Lammy stated.

“There is immense potential for collaboration between our two nations.”