In a joint press statement with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on 24 July, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) as a historic day for India–UK ties and a “blueprint for shared prosperity.”
PM Modi said the agreement goes beyond economic partnership. He added that the agreement will be especially beneficial for Indian youth, farmers, fisherfolk and the MSME sector. “After years of effort, this agreement has finally been concluded,” Modi said, expressing satisfaction at the outcome of prolonged negotiations.
The Prime Minister also announced the launch of ‘Vision 2035’, a joint roadmap that will energise the strategic partnership over the next decade. “This will be a roadmap for a strong, reliable, and ambitious partnership in technology, defence, climate, education and people-to-people ties,” he said.
Defence collaboration received a significant push through the establishment of a Defence Industrial Roadmap. Modi further stated that both sides are working to strengthen the Technology Security Initiative. “From AI to critical minerals, semiconductors to cyber security, we are committed to creating the future together,” he declared.
On the education front, Modi said six British universities are opening campuses in India. “Just last week, the University of Southampton opened its campus in Gurugram,” he added, highlighting the deepening academic exchange.
The Prime Minister also thanked his British counterpart for condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Modi reiterated that there can be no double standards in the fight against terrorism. “Those who misuse democratic freedoms to undermine democracy itself must be held to account,” he said. He further mentioned that both nations will continue cooperation on the extradition of economic offenders.
Reinforcing this stand on social media, Modi tweeted:
“My gratitude to PM Keir Starmer for the strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. We also agree that extremist ideologies must not be allowed to misuse democratic freedoms. Those who misuse democratic freedoms to undermine democracy itself, must be held to account.”
Discussing global affairs, Modi said both leaders had shared views on peace in the Indo-Pacific, the conflict in Ukraine, and the situation in West Asia. “We support the earliest possible restoration of peace and stability. Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations is essential,” he added.
In a personal note, Modi expressed condolences to the families of British citizens who died in last month’s accident in Ahmedabad. He also praised the Indian-origin community in the UK, calling them a “living bridge” between the two countries. “They have contributed not only to the UK’s economy, but also to its culture, sports, and public service,” he said.
Ending on a lighter note, Modi made a cricket analogy to describe bilateral ties: “There may be a swing and a miss at times, but we always play with a straight bat.”
