Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently met in Delhi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The leaders discussed a range of issues, including the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK. Talks for the FTA have been ongoing for quite some time, and Sunak’s visit provided an impetus to finalize the deal.

Sunak expressed confidence that the FTA would be a forward-looking and modern agreement that would benefit both countries. He emphasized the shared ambition of doubling trade between India and the UK by 2030. The leaders also discussed the growing network of Sikh radicals in Britain, which remains a challenge in the India-UK partnership.

The close and growing ties between India and the UK were highlighted during the meeting. The leaders emphasized the importance of building on the past and focusing on the future, particularly in areas such as defense technology, trade, and innovation. They also discussed consular issues and the negotiations for the FTA.

According to a UK Government readout, both leaders agreed that ministers and negotiation teams would continue working at a fast pace towards achieving the FTA. The UK Prime Minister reiterated their ambition to deliver a landmark trade deal that benefits businesses and workers in both countries. They aim to grow trade in goods and services.

Sunak, in a statement before the G20 Summit, acknowledged the enormous challenges faced by the world and the need for leadership. He highlighted the G20’s role in addressing these challenges, similar to how it helped restore global growth after the financial crisis. Sunak expressed his belief in addressing the current challenges through collective efforts from the G20 member nations.

This visit marked Rishi Sunak’s first official trip to India since becoming the UK Prime Minister. The meeting between Modi and Sunak reflects the importance of strengthening the India-UK partnership and the commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and cooperation.