‘We completely support the right to peaceful protests’: Outgoing UK envoy Lindy Cameron

Outgoing British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron is set to become the UK's Permanent Under Secretary, a position equivalent to the topmost diplomat's role in India. The former High Commissioner, who spent around two-and-a-half years in India, recently spoke with The Indian Express about her tenure and her key accomplishments. She highlights the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CEPA) as her top achievement, describing it as a career-defining moment that would benefit both nations.

Cameron also emphasizes the importance of Vision 2035, a strategy to deepen the relationship between the UK and India, focusing on the future and potential opportunities for both countries.

Regarding the tough negotiations for the trade agreement, Cameron credits her relationship with Indian Trade Secretary Johnny Reynolds and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal for its success. She credits their strong relationships for helping them reach a mutually beneficial deal, where neither side got everything they wanted, but both sides got most of what they desired. Cameron also mentions that her time in the National Cyber Security Centre in London contributed to progress in the cyber security domain.

In the strategic domain, particularly in defense and security, Cameron is most proud of helping Rolls-Royce secure a deal to potentially build India's future combat jet engine. This offer not only positions Rolls-Royce as a world-leading company but also signifies a significant step towards India's industrial future and growth in aerospace, energy, and other sectors.