2 days Ago By TOI News Desk
NEW DELHI: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Monday that the UK would resume talks with India for a free trade agreement, aiming to strengthen economic ties and deepen strategic cooperation. The announcement came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Starmer on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil, where the two leaders discussed enhancing collaboration in key areas. "The UK will seek a new strategic partnership with India, including a trade agreement, as well as deepening cooperation in areas like security, education, technology, and climate change," Starmer's office said.
Starmer, in a statement released by his office, highlighted the economic benefits of a potential trade deal. "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 – and represent a step forward in our mission to deliver growth and opportunity across our country," he said.
PM Modi described the bilateral discussion as "extremely productive," pointing the importance 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 add strength to trade as well as cultural linkages," PM Modi said.
The proposed trade agreement is expected to build on the £42 billion bilateral trade relationship recorded in the 12 months to June 2024, with UK exports to India valued at £16.6 billion. PM Modi, who had a packed schedule at the G20 Summit, also engaged in 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 success in lifting 250 million people out of poverty and voiced support for Brazil's initiative to form a global alliance against hunger and poverty..
