Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer showcased a warm exchange during their joint press conference in London. Amidst the translation process, Prime Minister Modi interjected, “Don’t bother, we can use English words in between. Don’t worry about it.” Starmer responded with a smile, noting, “I think we understand each other well.”
In a lighthearted reference to the ongoing Test cricket series between India and England, PM Modi employed a cricket analogy, saying, “There may be a swing and a miss at times but we always play with a straight bat.” He underlined the commitment to a strong, high-scoring partnership between the two nations. This camaraderie followed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and the endorsement of the India-UK Vision 2035.
PM Modi emphasized the historic significance of the day in strengthening India-UK relations. He expressed satisfaction with the conclusion of the CETA, viewing it as a roadmap for mutual prosperity. The agreement is poised to enhance market access for Indian goods in the UK, including textiles, footwear, and gems, and to provide opportunities for agricultural and processed food industries. It is projected to offer substantial benefits to India’s youth, farmers, fishermen, and the MSME sector.
The agreement also promises easier access to UK-made products for Indian consumers and industries. Furthermore, an agreement on the Double Contribution Convention was reached, aimed at boosting the service sectors in both countries, particularly in technology and finance. This agreement is expected to facilitate business, reduce operational costs, and draw skilled Indian talent to the UK, further fostering job creation and bilateral investment. PM Modi stated that these developments between two dynamic democracies would contribute to global stability and shared prosperity.