Stalin meets UK officials

Chennai: Chief minister M K Stalin met UK Minister Catherine West and Vikram Doraiswami, Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, on Thursday to discuss the possibility of deeper ties between Tamil Nadu and the UK.As part of his visit to the UK during the ongoing TN Rising Europe drive, Stalin met Catherine West at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to explore opportunities for enhanced TN-UK collaboration across a range of strategic areas. "We discussed opportunities in green economy, education, research, skilling, and maritime connectivity. I highlighted TN's strengths in renewables, e-mobility, IT & manufacturing, and invited deeper UK collaboration to build a sustainable and future-ready economy," Stalin said on X. State govt said the meeting underscored TN's growing relevance as a key player in the India-UK partnership, not only in economic terms but also in unexplored areas such as resilient maritime connectivity, skilling, and climate cooperation. Stalin also addressed opportunities for expanding cultural and diaspora linkages.In another meeting, Vikram Doraiswami expressed appreciation for TN's industrial growth and global outlook. "High Commissioner commended TN's leadership in higher education and skilling. He observed that TN was an ideal choice for UK universities looking to establish campuses in India under the new FTA framework, and welcomed state's proactive engagement with UK's educational institutions," DMK said. Stalin detailed the state's efforts in facilitating UK-TN educational partnerships, including regulatory support and infrastructure for international universities. He mentioned ongoing discussions with several institutions and said an MoU was signed with University of Exeter, marking a step forward in strengthening India–UK academic ties.Stalin released a video from the UK on unveiling of Periyar's portrait at Oxford University. "I am ecstatic to unveil the portrait of Periyar. He was not just the leader of Tamils but a leader who protected the self respect of all sections of people," Stalin said.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Teacher's Day wishes, messages and Quotes !