Non-recognition of covishield is a discriminating policy: FS Shringla on new UK travel rules

According to new travel rules, Indians travelling to the UK, who have received both doses of Serum Institute of India's (SII) Covishield will be considered unvaccinated and will have to undergo self-isolation for 10 days.

New Delhi: Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla on Tuesday said that the UK has given assurance on resolving the issue about the non-recognition of the Covishield vaccine for Indians travelling to Britain.

Addressing the special media briefing on PM Modi's visit to the U.S, here on Tuesday, Shringla called the non-recognition of Covishield a "discriminating policy" that impacts Indian citizens travelling to the UK.

"The EAM has raised the issue strongly with the new UK foreign secretary. I am told that certain assurances have been given that this issue will be resolved," Shringla told the media persons today.

Earlier today, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar met the newly-appointed British Foreign Secretary Elizabeth Truss on the sidelines of the UNFA meeting in New York and urged for early resolution of quarantine issues in mutual interest.

EAM Jaishankar also discussed the progress of Roadmap 2030 and appreciated her contribution on the trade side. Both the leaders exchanged views on developments in Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific.

Jaishankar is in New York to attend the 76th session of the UNGA and hold bilateral talks with various world leaders.

The meeting between Jaishankar and UK's Truss came the same day the UK announced new COVID-related travel restrictions, not recognising Covishield, that sparked sharp criticism and concerns in India.

According to new travel rules, Indians travelling to the UK, who have received both doses of Serum Institute of India's (SII) Covishield will be considered unvaccinated and will have to undergo self-isolation for 10 days.

Earlier, commenting over the new rules that will come into effect next month in India, a British High Commission spokesperson in New Delhi has said the UK is engaged with India on the issue and is committed to opening up international travel again as soon as is practicable.