EAM Jaishankar congratulates new UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, says looking forward to working together to continue Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Yvette Cooper Appointed UK Foreign Secretary Amid Major Cabinet Reshuffle

In a surprise move, Yvette Cooper has taken charge as the new UK Foreign Secretary. Prime Minister Keir Starmer quickly reshuffled his government, placing Cooper in this important role after she replaced David Lammy. The appointment comes at a time when UK diplomacy faces many global challenges, from conflicts in Europe to crises in Gaza.

Expressing her enthusiasm on social media, Yvette Cooper said it’s a huge honor to serve as the UK Foreign Secretary. She emphasized her commitment to representing Britain’s interests around the world, especially during such critical times.

Meanwhile, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, congratulated Cooper on her new role. He took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to say he looked forward to working with her to strengthen the growing India-UK partnership. Jaishankar added, “Looking forward to continuing the strong momentum of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”

Yvette Cooper brings a wealth of experience to her new position, though she has never handled an international portfolio before. She has served in various key roles in the UK government, including as Home Secretary, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, and Work and Pensions Secretary. She has been known for her efforts to negotiate bilateral agreements with countries like France and Germany to fight illegal migration, a top priority for Prime Minister Starmer.

Born in Inverness and raised in Hampshire, Cooper studied philosophy, politics and economics at Oxford University and later was awarded a scholarship to Harvard. She has also worked on Bill Clinton’s 1992 presidential campaign and held positions within the Labour Party, including Cabinet roles under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.

Her appointment is notable as she is part of a historic moment — she and her husband became the first married couple to serve together in the UK Cabinet. Cooper is also remembered as the first woman to serve as Chief Secretary to the Treasury and the first Minister to take maternity leave in 2001.

Following her appointment, David Lammy has stepped down as Foreign Secretary and will now serve as Justice Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister. This cabinet reshuffle was prompted by recent political changes, including the departure of Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner due to an ethics investigation.

This major change in UK leadership reflects the government’s efforts to tackle ongoing issues like migration and international conflicts, with Cooper now playing a key role on the world stage.