New Delhi: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Monday that the UK would restart negotiations with India for a free trade agreement (FTA), aiming to boost economic ties and enhance strategic collaboration between the two nations. The decision follows a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Starmer on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil, where both leaders discussed expanding cooperation in key sectors.
In a statement from his office, Starmer emphasized the importance of a new strategic partnership with India, which would not only include a trade agreement but also deepen cooperation in areas such as security, education, technology, and climate change. “Boosting economic growth is key to improving living standards for working people. A new trade deal with India will support jobs and prosperity in the UK, representing a significant step forward in our mission to deliver growth and opportunity across the country,” he said.
PM Modi Calls Bilateral Talks “Extremely Productive”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described his discussion with Starmer as “extremely productive,” underscoring the significance of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. “In the coming years, we are eager to work closely in areas such as technology, green energy, security, and innovation. We also want to strengthen trade and cultural ties,” Modi said.
The proposed trade agreement would build upon the existing £42 billion bilateral trade relationship recorded for the year ending June 2024, which includes UK exports to India worth £16.6 billion. The two leaders are hopeful that the trade pact will further bolster economic exchanges between the nations.
PM Modi Engages in G20 Diplomacy, Advocates for Global Cooperation on Poverty and Hunger
During the G20 Summit, PM Modi also held bilateral talks with leaders from France, Italy, Norway, Portugal, and Indonesia. Additionally, he addressed the G20 session on “Social Inclusion and the Fight Against Hunger and Poverty,” where he highlighted India’s achievement in lifting 250 million people out of poverty. Modi also expressed strong support for Brazil’s initiative to form a global alliance against hunger and poverty, advocating for greater international cooperation to tackle these critical issues.
