India, UK to discuss next generation defence tie-up

The defence and security will be discussed as "Our nations face complex new threats," the UK Prime Minister's Office said.

"This includes support for new Indian-designed and built fighter jets, offering the best of British know-how on building battle-winning aircraft.

"The UK will also seek to support India's requirements for new technology to identify and respond to threats in the Indian Ocean," the statement added.

To support greater defence and security collaboration with India over the coming decade, the UK will issue an Open General Export Licence (OGEL) to India, reducing bureaucracy and shortening delivery times for defence procurement, the UK PMO said.

This is Britain's first Open General Export Licence in the Indo-Pacific region, it added.

"The world faces growing threats from 'autocratic states' which seek to undermine democracy, choke off free and fair trade and trample on sovereignty," said Johnson.

He said the United Kingdom's partnership with India was a beacon in these stormy seas.

"Our collaboration on the issues that matter to both our countries, from climate change to energy security and defence, is of vital importance as we look to the future."

Johnson will also discuss new cooperation on clean and renewable energy in his meetings in New Delhi, aimed at supporting India's energy transition away from imported oil and increasing its resilience through secure and sustainable energy, and addressing climate change in both the UK and India.

The UK and India are launching a virtual Hydrogen Science and Innovation hub to accelerate affordable green hydrogen as well as new funding for the Green Grids Initiative announced at COP26, and collaboration on joint work on the electrification of public transport across India.

Besides, the statement said, "Our governments are committing up to 75 million pounds to roll out adaptable cleantech innovations from India to the wider Indo-Pacific and Africa, and working together on international development and girls education".

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed his UK counterpart Boris Johnson at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Friday morning.

He was given a military guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Talking to media persons, Johnson said: "Thank you for the fantastic welcome you have given us, Narendra."

Johnson also praised the way he was welcomed in Gujarat on Thursday.