Tariq Ahmad, the UK's Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, and UN, commenced two UK-funded sustainability projects in India during his visit, aiming to address crucial environmental issues.
In Chennai, Ahmad launched a heat mitigation project in collaboration with Tamil Nadu’s State Planning Commission, focusing on combatting extreme heat-related deaths and preserving vital ecosystems.
Additionally, he initiated an electronic and battery waste management project in partnership with the Tamil Nadu Department of Environment and Climate Change, striving to develop strategies for reducing battery waste.
Ahmad expressed enthusiasm about fostering innovation collaborations with dynamic Indian businesses, particularly in renewable manufacturing and financial services. These initiatives leverage the robust trade partnership between the UK and India.
Lord Ahmad is set to take part in the Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet (TNGIM) where he'll present various projects highlighting UK-India collaboration. He'll also attend the Vibrant Gujarat summit focused on innovation.
Moreover, a partnership with the Tamil Nadu Department of Environment and Climate Change will launch an Electronic and Battery Waste Management project aimed at reducing battery waste.
Recognizing the economic importance of Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, Lord Ahmad aims to emphasize the strong trade ties between the UK and India. He'll focus on exploring opportunities for collaboration, especially in the clean energy sector.
Amid his visit, Ahmad delivered a keynote speech at the Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet and participated in the Biennial Investors’ Summit at Vibrant Gujarat, emphasizing the ongoing India-UK free trade agreement negotiations and their discussions encompassing goods, services, and investment.