UK’s Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN, and the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on preventing sexual violence in conflict, Lord Tariq Ahmad, mesmerized the audience with his eloquent poetry and fluent expressions during his visit to Hyderabad on Tuesday. Lord Ahmad, who is currently on a five-day trip to India, shared a heartfelt connection with the country as he revealed that his mother was born in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, and his father in Gurdaspur, Punjab. Reflecting on his roots, he acknowledged the struggles and perseverance of his grandparents, who left India in 1947, worked hard, adapted to a new language, and ensured their children received an education.
When questioned about India’s current situation, Lord Ahmad expressed confidence in the nation’s potential for recovery, stating, “Post-Covid, we are facing challenging times, but we will overcome them soon.” He also praised India’s rich artistic heritage and craftsmanship while admiring the beauty of Hyderabad, the city hosting his visit.
During his busy schedule, Lord Ahmad visited T-Hub and Skyroot earlier in the day. Highlighting the importance of collaboration in the field of electric cars and vehicles, he mentioned a unique startup that is developing an app for aviation, providing travelers with boarding and relaxation time guidelines.
Additionally, Lord Ahmad disclosed that eight UK Cabinet members will attend the upcoming G-20 Summit in India, emphasizing the significance of the UK-India relationship. His visit to India is focused on promoting science, technology, and innovation, showcasing the UK’s dedication to strengthening global partnerships in these areas. This commitment is evident through the recent appointment of a Tech Envoy to the Indo-Pacific, as stated in an official release.
The visit of Lord Ahmad underscores the UK’s long-term foreign policy objectives, which prioritize strengthening ties with India and deepening engagement in the Indo-Pacific region, as outlined in the Integrated Review.