Source: FE
Context: Prime Minister of India landed in the UK on a two-day visit to strengthen bilateral ties, with a key focus on the India-UK Free Trade Agreement and issues like extradition and extremism.
About United Kingdom:
What is the United Kingdom?
The United Kingdom (UK) is a sovereign island nation comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
It is located northwest of mainland Europe, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, North Sea, Irish Sea, and the English Channel.
Capital: London — a global financial, cultural, and political hub.
Political System: Parliamentary constitutional monarchy.
Neighbouring Countries:
Shares land border only with the Republic of Ireland.
Maritime neighbours include France, Norway, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
England is just one of the four constituent countries of the United Kingdom.
The term “UK” includes England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, whereas England refers only to its southern part.
Ben Nevis (Scotland): UK’s highest peak (1,345 m), part of the Grampians; shaped by glaciation.
Cambrian Mountains (Wales): Volcanic origin, biodiversity-rich; called Wales’ backbone.
Pennines (England): “Backbone of England”, influencing rivers and climate patterns.
Thames: Lifeline of London, historic trade and transport route.
Severn: UK’s longest river; largest tidal range, key for hydropower.
Clyde: Engine of Glasgow’s shipbuilding and industrial rise.
Historical & Strategic Importance:
Former colonial power with strong cultural, linguistic, and political influence worldwide.
First nation to exit the EU (Brexit) in 2020.
Founding member of NATO, G7, UNSC P5, and the Commonwealth.
Strategic partners under Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2021).
Collaboration in trade, defence, innovation, fintech, health, and climate.
Talks on Free Trade Agreement aim to enhance $20 billion+ bilateral trade.