India and the United Kingdom: “Natural Partners” in a Time of Global Uncertainty, Says PM Modi
In a statement that underscored the growing depth of India–UK relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described India and the United Kingdom as “natural partners” whose evolving relationship has become a vital pillar of global stability and economic progress at a time when the world is grappling with uncertainty and geopolitical turbulence.
Following wide-ranging discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that a new energy and momentum now define the relationship between the two democracies.
Shared Democratic Values at the Core of the Partnership
Addressing the media after bilateral talks, Prime Minister Modi emphasised that the India–UK partnership is deeply rooted in shared democratic values — including freedom, the rule of law, and mutual respect for institutions.
He noted that the relationship continues to evolve in ways that are both practical and visionary, serving not just the interests of the two nations but also contributing meaningfully to global peace and prosperity.
Economic Cooperation and the CEPA Agreement
Speaking about the economic dimension of the relationship, Prime Minister Modi drew attention to the historic Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed between India and the United Kingdom in July, which he said will catalyse bilateral growth.
“This agreement will reduce import costs, generate new employment opportunities, and boost trade between our nations. It will benefit industries and consumers on both sides,” Modi stated.
He reiterated that this milestone accord represents a new chapter of cooperation, with the potential to elevate bilateral trade to record levels and pave the way for greater collaboration in innovation, manufacturing, and digital technologies.
India’s Support for Peace through Dialogue and Diplomacy
Touching upon pressing international concerns, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s consistent stance in favour of peace and dialogue as the means to resolve conflicts.
“On the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, India supports all efforts aimed at restoring peace through dialogue and diplomacy,” he said.
He further affirmed that India remains fully committed to enhancing maritime security cooperation with the United Kingdom in the Indo-Pacific region, an area of increasing strategic importance for both nations.
Keir Starmer’s Remarks: Shared Global Responsibilities
Echoing Modi’s sentiments, Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasised that the two sides also discussed the urgent need for an immediate and lasting peace in Ukraine, the importance of stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, and collaboration on global climate and energy challenges.
Starmer highlighted the need for reducing dependence on fossil fuels and strengthening cooperation in clean and renewable energy sectors, calling it “a partnership for a sustainable future.”
“Our Partnership Is Built on Trust,” Says PM Modi
Prime Minister Modi underlined that the strength of the India–UK partnership lies in trust, talent, and technology.
“The enthusiasm and energy of India combined with Britain’s expertise have created a unique synergy,” he said.
“Our partnership is built on trust and driven by the shared power of talent and technology. Standing here together today reflects our joint commitment to work for a brighter and more prosperous future for the people of both our nations.”
Advancing Defence Cooperation and Co-Production
Emphasising the strategic dimension of the partnership, Prime Minister Modi said that India and the UK are steadily advancing towards defence co-production and integrating their respective defence industries to create a framework for shared innovation, manufacturing, and technological exchange.
The collaboration aligns with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative and reinforces its position as a trusted global defence partner.
Collaboration in Critical Minerals and Green Technology
In a forward-looking move, both nations also agreed to deepen cooperation in the field of critical minerals, essential for next-generation technologies such as electric vehicles, semiconductors, and renewable energy systems.
As part of this initiative, the two governments have decided to establish an Industry Guild and a Supply Chain Observatory dedicated to critical minerals. The observatory’s satellite campus will be set up at the Indian Institute of Mines (ISM) in Dhanbad, marking a significant step toward building sustainable and transparent supply chains.
Prime Minister Modi also announced the establishment of a Climate Technology Startup Fund, which will provide vital support to entrepreneurs in both countries developing innovative solutions for the global climate challenge.
A Partnership for the Future
The meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer reaffirmed that India and the United Kingdom are united by shared values and a shared vision for a secure, sustainable, and prosperous world.
From trade and technology to defence and climate resilience, the partnership continues to expand in scope and significance, embodying the spirit of two democracies working hand in hand to navigate the challenges of the 21st century.
As Prime Minister Modi aptly put it — “Our partnership is not just about the present; it is about shaping a better future for generations to come.”
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