British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, expressed his readiness to advance negotiations on the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and emphasized his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
In a press statement from the UK government, Starmer conveyed his willingness to finalize a mutually beneficial FTA that would benefit both nations. The leaders exchanged congratulations on their recent electoral victories and underscored the robust historical ties between the UK and India.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. They agreed to expedite efforts towards concluding the FTA and Modi invited Starmer to visit India soon.
Additionally, discussions touched upon the importance of the “living bridge” connecting the UK and India, as well as collaboration on a 2030 roadmap. Both leaders agreed to deepen cooperation across various domains, including defence, security, technology, and climate change.
Starmer acknowledged Modi’s leadership on global issues such as climate action and economic growth. The FTA negotiations, initiated by the UK’s former Conservative government, aimed at potentially doubling bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030 through reduced tariffs and enhanced market access for diverse goods traded between the two countries.
