The UK government says it is strongly determined to conclude a Free Trade Agreement with India, a priority it has stressed during the special Diwali reception hosted by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in London. In her address at this special reception, British parliamentary undersecretary of state Catherine West set forward another confirmation of the British government’s unflinching commitment to taking negotiations on the FTA forward, stalled due to the general elections held in both countries recently. 

Addressing the event, West referenced the Conservative government’s 2022 Diwali deadline for concluding the agreement, while reaffirming that the newly elected Labour government remains focused on achieving the deal. The FTA aims to bolster the current £38.1 billion bilateral trade relationship between the UK and India. West expressed optimism about the negotiations, describing the FTA as a ‘magic moment’ for both nations and drawing a parallel between the forthcoming agreement and the symbolic lighting of candles for Diwali. She invited attendees to “pray for those negotiations” to bring about a positive outcome. 

The Diwali reception, held at Lancaster House, brought together parliamentarians, community leaders, and professionals, and featured Hindu prayers, the lighting of candles, and a tribute to Bandi Chhor Divas, an important Sikh celebration. The event echoed themes of light overcoming darkness, with spiritual messages, music, and dance performances underscoring the Diwali message of triumph over evil. The renowned Kuchipudi dancer Arunima Kumar, alongside her students, presented a traditional dance symbolizing righteousness and enlightenment. 

The evening also saw Prime Minister Keir Starmer marking the occasion with his own Diwali celebration at 10 Downing Street. In his message to the British Indian community, Starmer emphasized the significance of light in a world that often feels uncertain and volatile, affirming the importance of Diwali’s message of hope and resilience. 

As the UK’s Diwali celebrations continue, the focus remains on building stronger UK-India ties, with the FTA seen as a key milestone in this ongoing partnership.