External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that India-UK ties have evolved from a complicated historical association to a dynamic and forward-looking partnership. In his remarks during the UK National Day celebrations in the national capital yesterday, Dr Jaishankar highlighted that both nations have not only expanded cooperation under the Technology Security Initiative but also deepened it with regard to connectivity, AI and critical minerals.

He highlighted that nine leading UK universities have received approval to establish campuses in India. He added that Southampton University has already inaugurated its campus in Gurugram and welcomed its first cohort of students as well. Dr Jaishankar emphasised that it is also an occasion to recognise the invaluable contribution of the 1.9 million-strong Indian diaspora in the UK. He called them a living bridge, saying they have helped to create a very special bond between the countries.