Keen on Make-in-India in defence, aerospace: Outgoing UK envoy Lindy Cameron

Lindy Cameron, the outgoing British High Commissioner to India, has expressed her keen interest in India's Make-in-India initiative in the defence and aerospace sectors. Describing India as a "big global player", Cameron highlighted the UK's intention to participate in such programmes. Speaking to The Indian Express, Cameron emphasized that the UK-India trade deal was a significant highlight of her tenure in Delhi, aiming to strengthen the bilateral relationship.

On India's proposal to end attacks in the Black Sea region, Cameron said, "For me, this symbolises that move by India to be a player in a wider conversation where, of course, India has an extraordinary and really diverse set of relationships to build on, some quite unique." The UK has identified defence, security and technology as the pillars of its bilateral ties with India.

Cameron also praised Rolls Royce for making a world-leading offer for India's future combat jet engine, noting the significant intellectual property transfer. Regarding the upcoming change in UK politics, Cameron remarked that while politicians change, the importance of India remains constant. She mentioned that while disagreements may arise, they are discussed privately and with mutual trust.

Cameron feels that her time in India has provided her with a unique perspective, allowing her to understand India's worldview, history, and scale. She views this understanding as crucial for her future role as the Permanent Under-Secretary in the United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.