Modi and Starmer Discuss Free Trade, Green Finance in Rio
- Muhammad Ahmad
- Nov 19, 2024
- 2 min read
Focus on economic ties, innovation, and people-to-people connections
On the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, the Indian and UK Prime Ministers held their first bilateral meeting
Modi and Starmer pledged to strengthen India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Talks centered on trade, technology, green finance, and consular services.
India announced new consulates in Belfast and Manchester, advancing ties.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This marked their first meeting since Starmer assumed office, and both leaders exchanged congratulations on their recent achievements. The discussions reflected mutual enthusiasm for deepening India-UK ties.
The meeting highlighted the strategic importance of bilateral relations, focusing on economic growth, innovation, and people-to-people connections. Both leaders emphasized the need to expedite negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signaling their confidence in the negotiating teams to address pending issues effectively.
Technical Focus
This partnership encompasses trade, emerging technologies, climate finance, and cultural exchanges. The UK is among India’s top trading partners, with bilateral trade valued at over $20 billion annually. With the proposed FTA, this figure is projected to grow significantly, fostering both nations' job creation and economic growth.
Recognizing opportunities for enhanced engagement, Modi announced two new Indian Consulates General in Belfast and Manchester to better cater to the Indian diaspora in the UK. Starmer welcomed the move, which was expected to strengthen consular support and deepen cultural ties.
Further discussions included topics such as migration, mobility, and addressing the presence of economic offenders. Both leaders stressed the importance of swiftly implementing agreements under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework, signaling a commitment to frequent dialogue and collaboration.
Their discussions reaffirmed India and the UK’s shared vision for a prosperous, sustainable, and interconnected future.
