Modi Meets UK PM Starmer to Boost Trade and Ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the UK on Thursday and met Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the Chequers Estate, the UK Prime Minister’s countryside retreat. This is PM Modi’s fourth visit to the UK.
Both leaders discussed many topics related to India-UK relations. They talked about trade, economy, technology, defence, security, climate change, health, education, and stronger connections between the people of both countries. They also shared views on important regional and global issues.
Later in the day, PM Modi will also meet King Charles III.
Before their meeting, Prime Minister Starmer announced that the UK and India had signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). He said this deal would create new jobs and help the UK’s economy grow by billions.
He explained that the FTA will reduce taxes on many products and increase exports. It will benefit businesses selling soft drinks, cosmetics, gin, and whisky. It will also help shoppers by lowering prices and giving them more choices in Indian products such as clothes, shoes, and food.
Starmer said, “This deal is good for British businesses, shoppers, and communities across the UK – from Scotland to the West Midlands and the North-East.”
According to the latest analysis, the FTA will help grow the UK economy by £4.8 billion each year and increase wages for workers by £2.2 billion. Starmer said, “India is one of the fastest growing economies, so this really matters.” He added that £6 billion in investments and export deals were being announced today, creating over 2,200 jobs for people in the UK.
Before leaving for the UK, PM Modi said that India and the UK have a strong partnership which has grown in recent years. He added that both countries work together in trade, defence, education, technology, sustainability, health, and more. Modi said he looked forward to strengthening economic ties to bring growth and jobs to both nations and also meeting King Charles III during his visit.
