In a significant development, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Britain's newly appointed Foreign Secretary David Cameron. The meeting, which took place on Monday, focused on a range of important issues, including the situation in West Asia, the conflict in Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific. Taking to the social media platform X, Jaishankar shared details of the meeting, stating, "A pleasure to meet UK Foreign Secretary @David_Cameron this afternoon on his first day in office. Congratulated him on his appointment. Held a detailed discussion on realizing the full potential of our strategic partnership."

He also mentioned exchanging views on pressing global issues. Cameron, who previously served as Britain's Prime Minister from 2010 to 2016, accepted the position of Foreign Secretary after being appointed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The reshuffle came after Suella Braverman was sacked as Home Secretary and replaced by James Cleverly. Following his appointment, Cameron expressed his eagerness to take on the role, stating, "We are facing a daunting set of international challenges, including the war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East. At this time of profound global change, it has rarely been more important for this country to stand by our allies, strengthen our partnerships, and make sure our voice is heard." Jaishankar's meeting with Cameron comes during his five-day official visit to the UK.

Prior to meeting Cameron, Jaishankar had tea-time talks with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at 10 Downing Street. The appointment of Cameron as the UK Foreign Secretary surprised many, as it is rare for a non-lawmaker to hold such a senior government post. Furthermore, it has been decades since a former Prime Minister has held a Cabinet job. In addition to the discussion between Jaishankar and Cameron, the meeting also touched on the Israel-Hamas conflict in West Asia, Russia's war in Ukraine, and the situation in the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders expressed their willingness to work closely together.

During his visit, Jaishankar also met with Cleverly, who was appointed as the Home Secretary after the reshuffle. They discussed the importance of mobility, skills, and talent in bilateral cooperation, as well as addressing shared concerns on extremism, economic offenses, trafficking, and security. Furthermore, Jaishankar held talks with British Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, emphasizing the need to enhance defense and security cooperation between India and the UK.

They also exchanged views on global security challenges and the convergence of approaches between the two countries. The meeting between Jaishankar and Cameron signals a commitment to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and the UK. As both countries navigate significant international challenges, this collaboration will be crucial in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond.