Despite concerns around Brexit, trade and investments between India and the U.K. increased by 15% last year, said Bharat Joshi, British Deputy High Commissioner in Chennai.
“A number of bilateral agreements were signed to further technology and research collaborations, security and cyber security. There has been an increase in job creation in both directions,” he told reporters here.
Mr. Joshi highlighted that more than 5.5 lakh visas were issued last year, and the number of student visas jumped by 27%.
“With the rules tightened, students go to legitimate colleges for their studies,” he said.
The British Deputy High Commission has also been working with its sister organisation, British Council, to encourage British students to study in India, he said.
The U.K. was also looking at sharing its expertise in offshore wind energy with Tamil Nadu. “We are also involved in the smart cities project and in identifying and collaborating with start-ups in the country.”
Mr. Joshi said the U.K. government had recently announced Tech Rocketship Awards, where the winners would get to visit the U.K. and meet prospective business partners, investors, and incubators.
The U.K. is looking at setting up a cross-border fund and would make an announcement in June this year.
