Brexit-bound UK woos India, Commonwealth

LONDON: Spurred by Brexit, a first-of-its-kind meeting of Commonwealth ministers responsible for trade, industry and investment is scheduled over two days next week, with London pinning much hope on India and other countries in the group.

Commerce secretary Rita A Teotia will represent India at the meeting titled Agenda for Growth. London-based sources rejected the perception that India downgraded the meet by not sending commerce minister Nirmala Seetharaman.

The Theresa May government has often indicated its post-Brexit trade direction by focusing on India and the Commonwealth countries as an alternative to Britain losing access to the European Single Market after leaving the EU.

The meeting is the first major event under the leadership of Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth secretary-general, who took over in April 2016.

The meeting, scheduled for March 9 and 10, is convened by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council and the Commonwealth secretariat.

Scotland said, “Current global trade instability remains a priority concern for member states. It is vital that no country is left behind... Our trade experts have identified significant, untapped opportunities which, with the Secretariat’s support, can boost intra-Commonwealth trade from 17% to 25% over the next three years.”

Next week’s meet takes place as countries consider the implications of Brexit on key industries across Commonwealth.