In a significant diplomatic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to the newly elected British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, to discuss strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UK. The conversation underscored the commitment of both leaders to foster robust economic ties and cooperation across various sectors.
Strengthening India-UK Relations
Prime Minister Modi congratulated Starmer on his landmark victory in the UK general elections, where the Labour Party achieved a landslide win. Expressing his enthusiasm for future collaboration, Modi invited Starmer to visit India, emphasizing the potential for deepening the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Pleased to speak with @Keir_Starmer. Congratulated him on being elected as the Prime Minister of the UK. We remain committed to deepening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and robust 🇮🇳-🇬🇧 economic ties for the progress and prosperity of our peoples and global good.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2024
“Pleased to speak with @Keir_Starmer. Congratulated him on being elected as the Prime Minister of the UK. We remain committed to deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and robust IN-GB economic ties for the progress and prosperity of our peoples and global good,” Modi stated on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Focus on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The dialogue between the two leaders highlighted the mutual desire to conclude a beneficial India-UK Free Trade Agreement. This agreement is anticipated to enhance trade relations, fostering economic growth and prosperity for both countries.
Reflecting on the historic ties between India and the UK, Modi and Starmer acknowledged the positive impact of the Indian community on the UK’s social, economic, and political landscape. They expressed their commitment to promoting close people-to-people connections, recognizing the importance of the living bridge between the two nations.
Roadmap for Future Cooperation
During their conversation, Modi and Starmer discussed the 2030 roadmap for India-UK relations, identifying key areas for collaboration. These include:
- Defence and Security: Enhancing cooperation in defence technologies and strategic security measures.
- Critical and Emerging Technologies: Fostering innovation and collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and biotechnology.
- Climate Change: Committing to joint efforts in combating climate change, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting green initiatives.
A New Chapter in India-UK Relations
Prime Minister Modi’s outreach to Keir Starmer marks a new chapter in India-UK relations. Modi also took the opportunity to praise outgoing PM Rishi Sunak for his leadership and contributions to strengthening ties between the two countries during his tenure.
In a statement, Modi expressed his optimism about the future of India-UK relations: “Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Keir Starmer on the remarkable victory in the UK general elections. I look forward to our positive and constructive collaboration to further strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in all areas, fostering mutual growth and prosperity.”
Conclusion
The conversation between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer sets a positive tone for the future of India-UK relations. With a focus on strategic partnership, economic cooperation, and addressing global challenges, both leaders are poised to usher in a new era of collaboration and mutual prosperity. As they work towards these goals, the world will be watching closely, anticipating the positive outcomes of this strengthened alliance.