During a joint press conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer displayed a friendly rapport. As the press conference proceeded with translation, PM Modi said, “Don’t bother, we can use English words in between. Don’t worry about it.” Starmer responded in kind, stating, “I think we understand each other well.”
Prime Minister Modi then employed a cricket analogy to characterize the India-UK relationship. He noted, “There may be a swing and a miss at times but we always play with a straight bat,” highlighting the commitment to building a strong and fruitful partnership. This took place following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and the endorsement of India-UK Vision 2035.
PM Modi emphasized the historic importance of the day, stating that it marked a milestone in India-UK relations. He welcomed the conclusion of the CETA, a result of years of dedicated efforts, which he described as a blueprint for shared prosperity. The agreement is expected to boost Indian exports of textiles, footwear, and gems, while also providing opportunities for agricultural and processed food industries. It will benefit India’s youth, farmers, fishermen, and the MSME sector.
In addition, the agreement will provide better access to UK-made goods, such as medical devices and aerospace components, for Indian consumers. A consensus was also reached on the Double Contribution Convention, which is expected to bolster the service sectors of both nations, especially in technology and finance. This is expected to enhance ease of doing business and attract skilled Indian talent to the UK, along with creating new employment opportunities through increased investment. The agreements are seen as significant contributions towards global stability and shared prosperity.