External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday met United Kingdom Prime Minister Andy Burnham on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda, discussing ways to strengthen bilateral economic ties in the context of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
Jaishankar said he conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm wishes to Burnham and discussed the economic partnership between the two countries and the global situation.
The minister also called for stronger trade and business cooperation among Commonwealth nations, highlighting the need to diversify economic engagements, build trusted supply chains and improve connectivity.
Addressing a Commonwealth business leaders’ meeting, Jaishankar stressed the importance of digital solutions, local distribution networks, skill development and capacity building to boost economic growth.
He also called for greater cooperation on climate action through initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
Jaishankar highlighted India’s experience in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, urging Commonwealth partners to strengthen local response hubs and promote skills mobility.
Earlier, on November 4, he represented India at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Executive Session, where he highlighted India’s digital public infrastructure model and recent free trade agreements.
CHOGM 2026 is being held in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth”.
