UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Sentiments for India: 'It's Special, Like a Son-in-Law's Return
- IndiaGlitz, [Friday,September 08 2023]
Rishi Sunak is anticipating a significant visit to New Delhi, where he expects a warm reception as India's son-in-law during his first trip to the country as Prime Minister. Sunak, accompanied by his wife Akshata Murty, daughter of one of India's wealthiest individuals, will arrive in the city ahead of the G20 summit. Downing Street is relying on Sunak's Indian heritage and his family ties to enhance his welcome among the locals. His goal for the trip is to advance a trade agreement with India and encourage other nations to help bypass Russia's blockade of Ukrainian grain.
Speaking to journalists during the journey to Delhi, Sunak expressed his excitement, stating that India holds a special place in his heart. While he typically visited India with his family every February, he had to forgo those annual trips since becoming Chancellor in 2020.
Sunak and Murty will visit the Akshardham Hindu temple in Delhi, showcasing their special status in India. Street vendors in India were even selling paintings of Sunak with messages of congratulations and good luck for the British Prime Minister.
During the G20 summit, Sunak plans to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to press for a trade deal and encourage India to adopt a tougher stance on Russia. Although Sunak is not scheduled to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, he emphasized that if they did cross paths, he would convey a strong message about Russia's isolation in the global community and its actions in Ukraine.
Regarding a potential meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Sunak stated that he would engage with various individuals on matters important to the UK and its citizens.