Modi, Burnham Chart New Course for India-UK Partnership After Landmark Trade Pact

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and newly appointed UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham have agreed to take the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights by fully leveraging the opportunities created by the recently operationalised India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

During their first telephone conversation since Burnham assumed office on July 20, the two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, including trade, technology, innovation, defence, security, clean energy, education and people-to-people exchanges. Modi congratulated Burnham on becoming Prime Minister and wished him success in his new role.

The leaders emphasised the importance of ensuring that the landmark trade agreement delivers tangible economic benefits to businesses and citizens in both countries. The agreement, which came into force on July 15 after nearly three years of negotiations, provides zero-duty market access for almost 99 per cent of India's exports to the United Kingdom, making it one of India's most significant trade agreements in recent years.

According to the British government, Burnham reiterated his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through the UK-India Vision 2035 framework and highlighted the valuable contribution of the Indian diaspora to British society. Both leaders also discussed expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies under the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, recognising innovation as a key driver of future economic growth.

The conversation also focused on the evolving situation in West Asia, with both leaders agreeing to work closely towards de-escalation and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route for energy supplies and international trade.

Modi and Burnham also acknowledged the historic cultural links between Manchester and Ahmedabad, reinforcing the strong people-to-people relationship that underpins the broader partnership. The leaders agreed to remain in close contact and expressed their intention to meet in person soon, signalling renewed momentum in India-UK relations and a shared vision for stronger economic, strategic and technological cooperation.