Jaishankar’s UK Visit: Security Breach and Diplomatic Engagements
During his official visit to the United Kingdom, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar faced a security breach that drew strong condemnation from the Indian government. A small group of pro-Khalistan extremists staged a protest outside Chatham House in London, where Jaishankar was attending a discussion. The protesters, waving flags and using loudspeakers, disrupted the event with their chants.
India Condemns the Security Breach
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a stern statement, condemning the actions of the extremists. “We have seen the footage of the security breach during EAM’s visit to the UK. We condemn the provocative actions of this small group of separatists and extremists and the misuse of democratic freedoms by such elements. We expect the host government to fulfill its diplomatic obligations in such situations,” the statement read.
Jaishankar’s Continued Diplomatic Engagements
Despite the protests, Jaishankar remained focused on his diplomatic agenda. He met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and other senior leaders. In a meeting with UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, they discussed critical issues such as the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, and efforts to counter trafficking and extremism. Jaishankar later shared on social media, “A good meeting with Home Secretary @YvetteCooperMP today in London. We discussed the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, and efforts to tackle trafficking and extremism.”
Pro-Khalistan Protests: A Pattern of Disruptions
🚨 : Khalistani goons attempt to heckle India’s External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar in London while he was leaving in a car. A man can be seen trying to run towards him, tearing the Indian national flag in front of cops. Police seem helpless, as if ordered to not act. pic.twitter.com/zSYrqDgBRx
— THE SQUADRON (@THE_SQUADR0N) March 5, 2025
This protest is not an isolated incident. In January, pro-Khalistan extremists disrupted an event outside the Indian High Commission in London. Additionally, Khalistani groups had stormed a cinema in Harrow, trying to halt the screening of Emergency, a film starring BJP’s Kangana Ranaut. Responding to such incidents, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s concerns: “We consistently raise concerns with the UK Government about violent protests and intimidation by anti-India elements. Freedom of speech cannot be applied selectively, and those obstructing it must be held accountable.”
Bilateral Discussions on Trade and Global Issues
Jaishankar’s visit also emphasized strengthening the India-UK strategic partnership. During his meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, Jaishankar conveyed “warm greetings” from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed key bilateral and global issues. He highlighted the importance of advancing economic cooperation, enhancing people-to-people exchanges, and tackling global challenges, including the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
Focus on the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
A major aspect of Jaishankar’s visit is the ongoing discussions around the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which aims to boost bilateral trade and economic relations. Both countries are working towards a more comprehensive and mutually beneficial economic partnership.
Khalistani Extremists Target Jaishankar
On Thursday, the MEA addressed an incident where Khalistani extremists heckled Jaishankar while he was leaving an event at Chatham House. A video showed a man running towards Jaishankar’s vehicle and tearing the Indian national flag in front of London police officers, who appeared unresponsive. Pro-Khalistan supporters were also seen holding flags and protesting outside the venue. The Indian government condemned the act and reiterated its expectations from the UK government to uphold its diplomatic responsibilities.
Strengthening Ties Amid Disruptions
Jaishankar’s official visit to the UK, which runs from March 4-9, also includes meetings with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and other key officials. The visit aims to further strengthen the India-UK comprehensive strategic partnership, covering areas such as trade, health, education, people-to-people ties, and defense cooperation.
Through these engagements, India is committed to advancing its relationship with the UK, even as it faces challenges from disruptive elements.
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