The India-UK partnership stands as an important pillar of global stability and economic progress at a time the world is witnessing uncertainties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday after holding wide-ranging talks with his British counterpart Keir Starmer that broadly focused on boosting ties in areas of trade, defence and technology.Following the Modi-Starmer talks, the two sides announced plans to supply lightweight multirole missile systems to the Indian military to strengthen its air defence capabilities, and agreed to finalise an inter-governmental pact to jointly develop maritime electric propulsion systems for India’s naval platforms.
The Indian side flagged its concerns over activities of pro-Khalistani elements in the UK, and stressed that radicalism and violent extremism should not be allowed to abuse freedom of expression.
In their restricted as well as delegation-level talks, the two leaders held that the sealing of the historic free trade agreement between the two sides in July will inject in new energy in ties as it will slash tariffs, increase access to each other’s markets, enhance trade, create jobs, and benefit industries and consumers in both countries.
The British prime minister, accompanied by over 100 CEOs, entrepreneurs, university vice-chancellors, landed in India’s financial capital on Wednesday to a rousing welcome. It is his first visit to India.
“India and the UK are natural partners. Our relationship is built on the shared values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law,” Modi said in his media statement in presence of Starmer.
“In today’s time of global uncertainty, our growing partnership stands as an important pillar of global stability and economic progress,” he said.
Modi said India’s dynamism and the UK’s expertise together will create a “unique synergy” to further enhance the bilateral relations in diverse areas.