London: One of the foremost challenges for Keir Starmer, the newly elected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, will be to restore the Labour Party’s strained ties with India, a relationship that has been tumultuous due to past remarks on Kashmir. Starmer led the Labour Party to a landslide victory in the general elections, ending Rishi Sunak’s Conservative Party’s 14-year grip on power.
Historical Context of Labour’s Stance on Kashmir
The Labour Party has faced criticism over its stance on the Kashmir issue. Historically, the party’s position has contrasted sharply with the British government’s view that Kashmir is a bilateral matter between India and Pakistan. Under the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn, the party passed an emergency motion in September 2019 calling for international observers to “enter” Kashmir and advocating for the right of self-determination for its people. This resolution also urged Corbyn to meet the high commissioners of both India and Pakistan to mediate and restore peace, preventing a potential nuclear conflict. India condemned this resolution, viewing it as pandering to vote-bank interests.
Starmer’s Diplomatic Mission
Understanding the importance of ties with the world’s fastest-growing economy, Starmer has made it a priority to rectify the missteps of his party. His election manifesto included a commitment to pursue a “new strategic partnership” with India, with a significant emphasis on a trade agreement. During his campaign, Starmer assured the Indian diaspora that Kashmir is an internal issue to be resolved by India and Pakistan. “Any constitutional issues in India are a matter for the Indian Parliament, and Kashmir is a bilateral issue for India and Pakistan to resolve peacefully,” he said during a meeting with Labour Friends of India.
Outreach to the Indian Diaspora
Starmer’s outreach efforts included denouncing Hinduphobia and celebrating cultural festivals like Diwali and Holi, signaling a shift in the Labour Party’s approach towards the British-Indian community. This policy adjustment aims to rebuild trust with this community and foster stronger business ties with India, a critical aspect of Labour’s international agenda.
Labour’s Foreign Policy of “Progressive Realism”
Out of power for over a decade, the Labour Party has outlined a foreign policy of “progressive realism,” which emphasizes pragmatic approaches to global challenges such as climate change and international security. Starmer’s manifesto includes plans for a new strategic partnership with India, focusing on trade agreements and cooperation in technology, security, education, and environmental issues.
Election Results and Transition
The Labour Party surpassed the magic number of 326 seats needed for a House of Commons majority just before 5 am on Friday, confirming a change of government that had been anticipated for months. This victory marks a remarkable turnaround for Starmer’s party within a single electoral cycle. Starmer will officially replace Sunak as Prime Minister on Friday, concluding the Conservative Party’s long-standing dominance in UK politics.
As Starmer steps into his new role, his efforts to mend and strengthen the Labour Party’s relationship with India will be closely watched, both within the UK and internationally. The success of these efforts could significantly impact the future trajectory of UK-India relations and the broader geopolitical landscape.
For further updates and detailed analysis on the implications of this election, stay tuned to our news coverage.
It seems new PM is anti India