Europe / The Times of India
India and the UK discussed the entire gamut of bilateral relations and regional and global issues of mutual interest. Foreign Secretary and Permanent Under-Secretary undertook a detailed review of the Roadmap 2030
Foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra met with UK's Permanent Under Secretary Sir Philip Barton for the annual UK-India Strategic Dialogue, discussing progress on the UK-India 2030 Roadmap. They reviewed advancements since January 2023, focusing on collaborations like the malaria vaccine, G20 Presidency, and migration opportunities. The dialogue emphasised negotiating a free trade agreement and enhancing defense cooperation.
The recently revealed portrait of King Charles III has sparked a range of vibrant reactions, with some observers commenting that the portrayal resembles athing in blood. This large-scale painting, measuring 2.6 by 2 meters, was commissioned by the Worshipful Company of Drapers and is slated for display in the Drapers Hall gallery in central London.
Britain rejects proposed WHO treaty draft due to disagreements over pandemic prevention and response, sovereignty concerns. Key issues include lockdown mandates, vaccine distribution. UK prioritises population protection, says proposed pandemic treaty 'not acceptable'.
Britain's King Charles revealed his first official portrait post-coronation, depicting him in Welsh Guards uniform against a vibrant backdrop, with a butterfly symbolizing his evolving public role. Artist Jonathan Yeo aimed to blend tradition with a modern monarchy, capturing Charles' humanity. The portrait, commissioned in 2020, celebrates his 50 years with The Drapers' Company and will be exhibited in London's financial district.
A UK government report warns that universities may collapse if they further restrict international students. The number of students paying deposits has plunged after visa restrictions. The government is concerned about abuse of the graduate visa route, but a committee found no evidence of this. Business leaders argue universities are a major export and urged the government to stop speculation.
The UK government said on Tuesday it had summoned China's ambassador Zheng Zeguang, a day after three people were charged in the latest Beijing-linked alleged espionage case. The ministry said that the summons followed Monday's announcement that three people had been charged with assisting Hong Kong's intelligence service.
Julian Assange's fate hangs in the balance as a UK court decides on US extradition. His wife, Stella, fears he could be on a plane to the US within a week. If extradited, this could end his 13-year legal battle but potentially lead to him never being free again. Stella vows to fight on regardless of the court's decision.
Three men - Chung Biu Yuen (63), Chi Leung Wai (38), and Matthew Trickett (37) - were charged in a London court for allegedly assisting Hong Kong's foreign intelligence service. The charges, under Britain's National Security Act, accuse them of information gathering, surveillance, and forced entry into a residence for foreign interference purposes between December and May. This comes amid rising tensions between Western nations and China over spying allegations.
John Lee calls for full info from British on arrests, including Bill Yuen Chung-biu. Chinese embassy rejects UK's claims. Men charged under Britain's National Security Act.