India in British foreign policy: Challenges for partnership of liberal democracies

Abstract

The article provides insight into the UK approach towards India after Brexit. It is highlighted that this policy is incorporated into the new foreign strategy (“Global Britain”). The author outlines that British government set to build new partnerships with like-minded countries based on neoliberal values. Against the backdrop of global shifts towards Asia and rise of new powers the UK international priority is to build an advanced partnership with India. The author explores the asymmetry in British and Indian interests. London seeks to benefit from advanced trade and investment partnerships in such areas as information technology, green energy, pharmaceuticals, etc. London also expects that comprehensive partnership with New Delhi, including in defence and maritime security, will help strengthen its strategic position in the Indo-Pacific region. Supporting New Delhi in its ambition to become a regional leader, inviting to the G7 Summit and promoting other multilateral formats. Developing trade and investment amid the pandemic, the UK pursues to establish preferential bilateral relations. Britain seeks to present a partnership with democratic India as a counterbalance to communist China in a highly competitive international environment, guided by both values and economic interests.