Mumbai, Oct 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasized that India and the UK are natural partners, with their growing partnership serving as a key pillar for global stability and economic progress.
Speaking after comprehensive talks with visiting British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Modi highlighted that the India-UK relationship is built on shared values such as democracy, freedom, and the rule of law.
In the joint briefing, PM Starmer called the bilateral ties “special” and said the two nations are forging a “new modern partnership focusing on the future,” praising India’s remarkable growth trajectory.
Modi announced that the two countries have reached an agreement on military training cooperation and stressed India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security collaboration with the UK in the Indo-Pacific region. On global issues, including the Ukraine conflict and the Gaza situation, Modi reiterated India’s support for restoring peace through dialogue and diplomacy.
The discussions covered trade, defence, security, and critical technology, reflecting a broad agenda aimed at strengthening strategic and economic ties. The visit coincides with the presence of a 125-member UK delegation of prominent business leaders, entrepreneurs, and educationists.
Starmer’s India visit comes just over two months after the India-UK Free Trade Agreement was signed during Modi’s trip to London in July. The landmark deal aims to expand market access, reduce tariffs, and is expected to double bilateral trade by 2030.