Britain's National Health Service (NHS) owes a significant debt of gratitude to the Indian diaspora, according to Health Secretary Wes Streeting. Speaking at India Global Forum's annual Diwali celebration in London, Streeting acknowledged the crucial role Indians have played in shaping the NHS over the past 76 years. He emphasized that the partnership with India will be vital in modernizing the UK's healthcare system.
Key Areas of Collaboration:
Primary Healthcare: India's innovative approaches to primary care delivery
Research and Innovation: Joint initiatives in medical research and development
Vaccine Development: Successful partnerships like the University of Oxford and Serum Institute of India
Technology: Exploring collaborations in healthcare technology
Pharmaceuticals: Joint initiatives in pharmaceutical research and development
Green Energy: Exploring sustainable energy solutions for healthcare facilities
Streeting highlighted India's impressive primary healthcare, research, and innovation, citing the successful India-UK vaccine partnership during the COVID pandemic as a shining example of bilateral collaboration. The vaccines developed jointly by the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India have saved countless lives worldwide. He also praised India's primary care delivery, suggesting the UK can learn from their approach, especially given the current struggles with GP appointments.
The UK-India partnership extends beyond trade, encompassing economic security, climate security, and global security. As the UK celebrates the first Diwali under the new Labour government, there's renewed vigor to strengthen this impactful relationship. With India as the largest foreign investor in the UK, the depth and breadth of their relations indicate a shared ambition for more substantive ties.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall reaffirmed the Labour Party government's commitment to securing a Free Trade Agreement and Bilateral Investment Treaty with India.
This partnership is expected to bolster the already substantial trading relationship, valued at over GBP 39 billion annually, supporting over 700,000 jobs across both nations.
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)
