Sitharaman Meets UK Chancellor to Discuss Financial and Economic Ties

Nirmala Sitharaman and UK Chancellor John Healey discuss financial cooperation in Bangkok, with the next India-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue scheduled for December 2026.

Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met UK Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey in Bangkok to discuss bilateral financial cooperation and potential areas for deeper economic collaboration between India and the United Kingdom.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, which are being held in the Thai capital. The discussions covered the conclusion of the fourth India-UK Financial Markets Dialogue, fintech meetings and related engagements under the India-UK Financial Partnership.

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The talks built on the outcomes of the previous Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD) between the two countries. Sitharaman highlighted India’s interest in the upcoming 14th EFD, with proposed areas of cooperation including critical minerals, green technology and city-region partnerships.

Both sides confirmed that the next Economic and Financial Dialogue would take place in December 2026. The engagement is expected to provide another platform for the two countries to discuss shared economic priorities and identify opportunities for collaboration across strategic sectors.

Sitharaman also reaffirmed India’s commitment to working closely with the UK on common priorities and supporting a constructive and inclusive G20 process.

The Finance Minister is visiting Bangkok from October 14 to 18 to attend the IMF and World Bank Group annual meetings. Her programme also includes meetings involving G20 and G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, alongside other bilateral engagements.

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The meeting reflects continued efforts by India and the UK to strengthen financial ties and expand cooperation in emerging economic and technological sectors. The proposed focus on critical minerals, green technology and city-region partnerships adds to the agenda for future bilateral discussions.