A former UK minister said visa-related demands were one of the key reasons that put a major sticking point in finalizing the long-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement, according to a report by The Hindu last week.
The ex-minister, who refused to go on record, said more liberalized visa rules were sought by India and discussions on the free trade pact faced a solid roadblock for reasons of seriousness with the visa regime.
Visa Demands and the India-UK FTA
One key demand in the current FTA negotiations by India is an increase in UK visas granted to Indian professionals. The government of India is keen on securing greater access for its skilled workforce to the job market in Britain.
However, such a demand has not gone well with certain factions in Britain who are strongly opposed to relaxing the restrictions on visa, regarding it as an issue that would spur immigration into Britain, something very hostile to the basic politics of Britain today.
The former minister stated that both countries are keen to complete the trade agreement; however, the logjam over visa demands has bungeed progress on the deal. According to him, visas to Indian nationals have become a main sore point where there is no willingness of the UK govt to bend upon.
Political Impact and Future Prospects
In light of the stalemate over the India-UK FTA, the future trajectory of the dialogue is uncertain. However, the British government remains committed to finding ways to have a stronger trade link with the rapidly growing Indian economy.
The visa issue, still an important problem area, nonetheless, if the deal needs to be negotiated in the near future, then both parties will have to present a compromise.
Conclusion
All these benefits the two successful FTA-member nations can have, which deal with trade, investment and economic cooperation, remain relevant as long as such discussions are put up.
