London – In an effort to clarify India’s position in the ongoing UK-India trade negotiations, Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, has underscored that India is not seeking an increase in visas but is instead pushing for simplified intra-company transfers and portable pensions. This declaration comes at a crucial juncture as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak engages in discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 summit.
Doraiswami firmly stated, “We are not advocating for an influx of migrants into the UK. In fact, we are a net beneficiary of migration, not a source of it.” He categorically refuted the notion that India is insisting on additional visas, a topic that has frequently surfaced in the UK media.
Responding to the need to retain talent within India, Doraiswami elucidated, “Our primary request is the streamlining of intra-company transfers.” He emphasized the importance of both Indian and British companies finding it easier to relocate their respective personnel between the two nations. Doraiswami also stressed the significance of a robust free trade agreement encompassing services, simplified visas for specialists, and opportunities for Indian students to gain work experience in the UK post their academic pursuits.
Furthermore, India seeks assurance that funds contributed to pension schemes by Indian expatriates working in the UK can be repatriated to India upon their return, ensuring access to the pension benefits accrued during their tenure in the UK.
In response to these clarifications, a spokesperson for UK PM Rishi Sunak reasserted the UK’s commitment to reducing net migration. While negotiations for the free trade agreement continue, there are no plans to alter immigration policies, including student visas.
It is worth noting that optimism is growing regarding the prospect of a free trade deal between the UK and India, with broad outlines of the agreement in alignment. However, challenging topics still await discussion in the negotiations.
