📷 Image Credits: India Today
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently dialed his newly-elected British counterpart Keir Starmer to congratulate him on the Labour Party’s landslide victory in the UK general elections. Modi emphasized the commitment to deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UK. Following the historic win by Starmer’s Labour Party, PM Modi expressed eagerness to collaborate with the new UK government to strengthen bilateral ties.
Narendra Modi also extended his gratitude to Rishi Sunak, Britain’s first Indian-origin premier, for his contributions during his tenure. The Labour Party secured 412 seats in the House of Commons, showcasing a significant victory over Sunak’s Conservatives. PM Modi highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between India and the UK for mutual growth and prosperity.
After his meeting with King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, Keir Starmer emphasized the need to rebuild Britain and stated that the country voted decisively for change. The UK and India are currently engaged in FTA negotiations aimed at bolstering bilateral trade, with a mutual goal of achieving a fair and balanced agreement that benefits both nations. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing the India-UK relationship across various sectors, including defense, security, technology, and climate change.
The bilateral trade between India and the UK has been on the rise, reaching $21.34 billion in the recent fiscal year. An FTA is expected to further boost trade volumes and promote the movement of skilled professionals between the two countries. PM Modi invited Keir Starmer for an early visit to India, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong people-to-people ties and cooperation in key global challenges such as climate change and economic growth.
Both leaders expressed eagerness to deepen the India-UK partnership and explore opportunities for collaboration in defense, technology, and climate change. The FTA negotiations, initiated in early 2022, aim to secure a mutually beneficial agreement that promotes trade and economic prosperity for both nations. The historic victory of Keir Starmer’s Labour Party opens new avenues for enhanced cooperation and partnership between India and the UK in the coming years.
