Prime Minister Narendra Modi and newly elected UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Friday reaffirmed their commitment to deepen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with a renewed focus on technology, trade, defence, clean energy and people-to-people ties.
During a telephone conversation, PM Modi congratulated Burnham on assuming office and conveyed his best wishes for a successful tenure. The two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation across priority sectors in line with the India-UK Vision 2035 framework.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Delighted to speak with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Andy Burnham. Congratulated him on assuming office and conveyed my best wishes for a successful tenure. We agreed to work together across sectors such as technology, innovation, defence, security, clean energy, education and people-to-people ties and take the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights.”
“We will also collaborate closely to fully harness the trade and investment opportunities presented by the recently operationalized India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, for the shared prosperity and well-being of both our people,” he added.
According to a statement issued by UK Prime Minister’s Office, Burnham described the India-UK relationship as one of great strategic importance and highlighted its positive impact on communities across the United Kingdom. He outlined his ambition to further strengthen bilateral ties through the Vision 2035 framework while emphasising the strong people-to-people links between the two countries.
The UK Prime Minister also praised the contribution of the Indian community to British society. During the conversation, PM Modi noted the historical links between Manchester, Burnham’s home city, and Ahmedabad, describing the Gujarat city as the “Manchester of India.”
On economic cooperation, Burnham underlined the significance of the recently operationalised trade agreement, saying it would create fresh opportunities for businesses and people in both countries. He also reiterated his commitment to the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, with both leaders identifying emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, as an important area for future collaboration.
The UK PMO added that the two Prime Ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the evolving situation in the Middle East. They agreed to continue working closely in support of de-escalation efforts and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, recognising the importance of stability for global trade and energy security. Both leaders agreed to remain in regular contact and expressed their intention to meet in person at the earliest opportunity.
Burnham assumed office as the 59th Prime Minister of the United Kingdom earlier this month. Soon after his appointment, PM Modi had congratulated him, expressing confidence that the India-UK partnership would continue to grow stronger, particularly after the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement.
(With agency inputs)
