New Delhi, March 13 (Punjab khabarnama): 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak over telephone and both the leaders expressed satisfaction over the progress made under the Roadmap 2030.”During the talks, the two leaders expressed satisfaction at the progress made under the Roadmap 2030 in various areas, including trade, investment, defence, security, emerging technologies and others,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a press release.The two leaders also assessed the progress made towards the early conclusion of a mutually beneficial free trade agreement.
They reaffirmed their commitment to continue strengthening the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Sunak also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest.Both the leaders agreed to remain in touch in future also. They also exchanged greetings on the occasion of the upcoming festival of Holi, the statement said
Earlier in the day, PM Modi had posted on Twitter, saying, “Had a good conversation with PM Rishi Sunak. We look forward to further strengthening the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership and working towards early conclusion of a mutually beneficial free trade agreement.” Reaffirmed our commitment.”It is noteworthy that India and Britain are negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Negotiations for an FTA between India and the UK began in 2022.
The 13th round of talks between India and the UK took place from September 18 to December 15, 2023. Earlier in January, during Defense Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to the UK, Rishi Sunak had expressed hope that the ongoing FTA negotiations can be made successful. Conclusion soon.
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement was also discussed during External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar’s recent visit to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in November.
