EAM Highlights India’s Growing Global Ties and Diaspora Strength at Old Trafford, Manchester

India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) addressed a gathering at Old Trafford, Manchester, highlighting the deep connections between sports, diplomacy, and politics. He reflected on his personal memories of cricket and the historical significance of Old Trafford for Indian cricket, including Sachin Tendulkar’s first century and India’s 1983 World Cup journey.

The core focus of his visit was the inauguration of India’s new consulate in Manchester, which aligns with the Modi government’s key priorities: strengthening ties with the Indian diaspora, boosting trade and mobility, and enhancing India-UK relations. He emphasized the vital role of the Indian community in shaping global perceptions of India and underscored the importance of economic, educational, and business collaborations between Manchester and India.

On International Women’s Day, he highlighted India’s progress in gender inclusion, especially in sports, entrepreneurship, and governance. He announced the establishment of the first Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra in the UK to support Indians facing difficulties abroad, particularly women.

The EAM concluded by expressing optimism about India-UK relations, particularly in trade and education, and looked forward to future collaborations—including potential cricketing events at Old Trafford.

EAM Highlights India’s Growing Global Ties and Diaspora Strength at Old Trafford, Manchester

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Minister Catherine West, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Standing at Old Trafford, a venue steeped in cricketing history, is deeply meaningful. This ground honors legends like Brian Statham and Jimmy Anderson—names that evoke nostalgia for those of us who grew up glued to radio commentary and newspaper updates on Lancashire cricket. For India, Old Trafford is iconic: Sachin Tendulkar’s first century, Farokh Engineer’s fiery passion, and the 1983 World Cup journey all resonate here. Launching Mohinder Amarnath’s memoirs recently reminded me how sports, like politics, thrive on strategy and teamwork—a theme that unites today’s dual purpose: inaugurating India’s new consulate and celebrating ties with Manchester.

Three priorities guide this consulate:

1. Empowering the Indian Diaspora: Prime Minister Modi has prioritized the global Indian community like no leader before. Their stories shape how the world sees India—through lived experiences, not textbooks.
2. Global Engagement: India champions fair globalization, expanding trade, tech, and mobility. This consulate fulfills our pledge to grow diplomatic missions worldwide, fostering a connected, integrated India.
3. India-UK Partnership: Rooted in history but focused on the future, we’re advancing a Free Trade Agreement. Recent talks with the UK government signal cautious optimism, and Manchester—with its thriving Indian community, academic ties, and investments—is pivotal to this vision.

Manchester’s Role: The Manchester-India Partnership has flourished for a decade. Indian businesses, students, and universities are key drivers. I urge Manchester’s institutions to explore opportunities in India, building on our reformed education policies.

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate India’s strides in gender equality: initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India empower young athletes, while microloans and legislative reforms uplift women entrepreneurs and leaders. Today, we also launch the UK’s first Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra, a support hub for overseas Indians, with a focus on aiding women.

This consulate embodies India’s vision for a future rooted in partnership and progress. Beyond facilitating trade and innovation, it will act as a catalyst for cultural exchange, bridging Manchester’s dynamic industries—from advanced manufacturing to digital tech—with India’s burgeoning startups and skilled workforce. Academic collaborations will flourish through joint research programs and student exchanges, nurturing talent that drives both nations forward.

On gender equality, we’re launching mentorship networks and skill-building initiatives to empower women in business and leadership roles, building on the success of schemes like the Stand-Up India program. As we honor International Women’s Day, let’s amplify stories of resilience, like the 45 million women entrepreneurs transformed by microloans. And yes, cricket remains our shared passion—I look forward to cheering Indo-UK matches here, where sport becomes diplomacy in action. Together, we’ll write a new chapter of shared prosperity, inclusivity, and unforgettable sporting moments. Thank you!