The visit is crucial as dates for the general elections are expected to be announced in less than a month, triggering the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) which will restrict the Union government’s ability to announce the deal.
India-UK Trade: "The talks for the agreement are at a crucial stage now. About three reviews have happened so far at the highest level," they said, adding both countries are working to iron out differences on the remaining issues.
The investment treaty is being negotiated as a separate agreement between India and the UK. The bilateral trade between India and the UK increased to USD 20.36 billion in 2022-23 from USD 17.5 billion in 2021-22.
Indian businesses are demanding greater access to the UK market for its qualified workers from areas such as IT and healthcare, as well as market access for a variety of commodities at zero customs duties
Senior officials from the UK are in New Delhi this week to add momentum behind the ongoing round of negotiations for an India-UK free trade agreement (FTA), according to a UK media report on Saturday.