Johnson was invited to participate in the Republic Day celebrations on January 26 as the main guest.
“The prime minister spoke with Prime Minister Modi this morning, to express his regret that he was unable to visit India later this month as planned,” said a Downing Street spokesman.
“In light of the national shutdown announced last night, and the speed at which the new variant of the coronavirus is spreading, the Prime Minister said it was important for him to stay in the UK so that he can focus on the national response to the virus, “Johnson told Prime Minister Modi.
The spokesperson said the leaders underscored their shared commitment to the bilateral relationship and continue to build on close collaboration between our countries, including in response to the pandemic.
Johnson He indicated that his visit to India would take place during the first half of this year and before the G7 summit chaired by the United Kingdom, scheduled for the end of this year.
The cancellation comes at a time when the UK is grappling with a surge in coronavirus infections and the country is under a strict lockdown.
.
