UK's Johnson delays India visit in setback for Indo-Pacific push

COVID crisis disrupts prime minister's diplomatic calendar ahead of G-7

20210105NY Johnson phone

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his office inside No. 10 Downing Street on Nov. 27, 2020. (Photo courtesy of No. 10 Downing Street)

ASHIS RAY, Contributing writer

LONDON -- The U.K.'s coronavirus health crisis has compelled British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to call off a visit to India that was meant to advance the two countries' economic ties ahead of the Group of Seven summit.

Johnson "spoke to Prime Minister [Narendra] Modi this morning, to express his regret that he will be unable to visit India later this month as planned," a Downing Street spokesperson said, adding that Johnson said "it was important for him to remain in the U.K. so he can focus on the domestic response to the virus."

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