NEW DELHI: In a significant diplomatic exchange, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the occasion of Sunak’s one-year anniversary in office. As leaders representing two of the world’s top five economies, they centred their conversation on the situation in West Asia, with a particular focus on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Expressing deep concern over issues such as terrorism, security, and civilian casualties, they emphasised the significance of addressing these challenges.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further bolstering the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with a specific emphasis on areas including trade, investment, emerging technology, defence, security, and healthcare. They also expressed satisfaction with the progress being made towards an early conclusion of a mutually advantageous Free Trade Agreement.
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Highlighting the deepening friendship between the UK and India, the leaders exchanged warm greetings for Diwali. The ongoing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement, initiated in January of the previous year, have raised expectations of an imminent agreement, potentially coinciding with Sunak’s second visit to India.
UK government officials indicate that bilateral trade with India reached an estimated GBP 36 billion in 2022, a figure poised for significant growth should the potential Free Trade Agreement come to fruition.
Before the G20 summit, UK officials harboured cautious optimism about finalising an agreement by November 12, potentially aligning with Diwali. If the deal materialises, it could result in Sunak making a second visit to India this autumn.
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During the G20 bilateral summit, Sunak emphasised that India will play a crucial role as “one of the most important geopolitical actors” in the coming decades. During his previous visit to India, Sunak, who has openly embraced his Hindu heritage on several occasions, was seen visiting the Akshardham temple with his wife, Akshata Murthy.