Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Meets UK Chancellor John Healy in Bangkok to Strengthen Economic Ties

Bangkok, October 15 (Daily Kiran) : Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with UK Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healy on Thursday in Bangkok during the IMF-World Bank annual meetings. The two leaders engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening economic ties between their countries.

According to a statement from the Finance Ministry, Sitharaman expressed India’s enthusiasm for the upcoming 14th Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD). This dialogue will focus on collaboration in critical minerals, green technology, and urban-rural partnerships. Both parties confirmed that the next EFD is scheduled for December.

Sitharaman reiterated India’s commitment to working closely with the UK towards shared priorities and a constructive, inclusive G20 process. The statement further noted that the leaders discussed the successful conclusion of the fourth India-UK Financial Markets Dialogue, fintech meetings, and related IUKEFP discussions. This conversation aimed to build on the outcomes of the previous EFD.

During the last EFD meeting, the UK side shared insights about its forthcoming industrial strategy, detailing how collaboration in key sectors like advanced manufacturing and life sciences could promote growth. The UK’s expertise and research capabilities could enhance India’s emerging role as a global manufacturing hub. Additionally, cooperation in clean energy, professional and business services, financial services, creative industries, and defense could foster job creation and economic development.

The ministry indicated that both sides are eager to sign the “India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap,” which aims to strengthen ties between industrial sectors and support supply chains.

Sitharaman is on an official visit to Bangkok from October 14 to 18. During this time, she will participate in the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, as well as meetings with finance ministers and central bank governors from G20 and G7 countries.

Throughout her visit, the finance minister will engage in multiple multilateral meetings and discussions. These will cover critical issues related to the global economy and finance, including current economic developments and challenges in the financial sector. The meetings will provide an opportunity to share insights on the global economic outlook, development priorities, and international financial cooperation.