Prime Minister Narendra Modi Holds Productive Bilateral Meeting with UK Counterpart Keir Starmer in Brazil
In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a comprehensive bilateral meeting with his UK counterpart, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, on Monday, on the sidelines of the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. During their discussion, both leaders focused on key issues such as technology, green energy, security, and innovation, showcasing strengthened ties between India and the UK.
"Had an extremely productive meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Rio de Janeiro. For India, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the UK is of immense priority," said PM Modi in a statement posted on social media platform X.
The two leaders had previously announced plans to relaunch trade talks with each other. According to sources, Downing Street has stated that the UK aims to negotiate a new trade deal with India, taking advantage of it being one of the fastest-growing economies globally.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also announced his commitment towards negotiating a comprehensive trade agreement with India. "A new trade deal with India will support jobs and prosperity in the United Kingdom," Starmer's spokesperson was quoted as saying.
During their discussions at the G20 Summit, PM Modi addressed various global issues such as climate change and social inclusion. The Prime Minister also shed light on his Government's initiatives to tackle poverty, food security, and women-led development.
Notably, the meetings came a day after PM Modi had an extensive series of bilateral talks with leaders from France, Italy, Norway, Portugal, and Indonesia, which he described as "extremely productive." Prior to meeting Starmer, they spoke extensively on how India can enhance cooperation with these countries in various critical sectors including security and defense.
"It is imperative for our Nation and the World that we recognize each other's capacity for resilience, adaptability, innovation, and sustainability," PM Modi said during his speech at the G20 Session on 'Social Inclusion and the Fight Against Hunger and Poverty.'
Modi also highlighted India's impressive progress, mentioning of 'Back to Basics and March to Future', a policy framework which was adopted by the Government in 2014. According to the policy, 'India will develop with "Atmanirbhar Bharat" as its goal – to be self-reliant.
The talks, the Prime Minister said, were marked by a spirit of mutual cooperation and trust. As he stated, "As friends, and partners, we must work closely in areas such as technology, green energy, security, innovation, trade, and cultural exchanges."
With his busy agenda over the weekend focused on deepening global partnerships, PM Modi demonstrated significant diplomatic acumen and highlighted India's commitment to fostering a new age of cooperation across various critical sectors.
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Source: Prime Minister Office