London, July 24: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday termed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom (UK) as a historic day for India-UK relations. “Today is a historic day in India-UK relations,” said PM Modi, who witnessed the signing of the trade pact along with British PM Keir Starmer by his side at Chequers Estate. “After many years of hard work, a comprehensive economic and trade agreement has been inked between India and the UK.”
The two leaders held a tête-à-tête before holding serious talks.
“First of all, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Starmer for his warm welcome and gracious hospitality. Today marks a historic milestone in our bilateral relations. I am pleased that, after years of dedicated efforts, the CETA between our two countries has been concluded today,” he said.
PM Modi said that this agreement was more than just an economic partnership.
“It is also a blueprint for shared prosperity. It paves the way for enhanced market access in the UK for Indian textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, seafood, and engineering goods. It will also unlock new opportunities for India’s agricultural produce and processed food industry. Above all, this agreement will be especially beneficial for India’s youth, farmers, fishermen, and the MSME sector,” he said. “The UK-made products, such as medical devices and aerospace components, will become more accessible and affordable for Indian consumers and industries.”
PM Modi said that alongside the trade agreement, a consensus had also been reached on the Double Contribution Convention.
“This will inject new momentum into the service sectors of both countries, particularly in technology and finance. It will enhance the ease of doing business, reduce operational costs, and boost confidence in doing business. Additionally, the UK economy will benefit from access to skilled Indian talent,” he said.
PM Modi said that these agreements would boost bilateral investment and generate new employment opportunities in both countries.
“Moreover, these agreements between two vibrant democracies and major global economies will also contribute to strengthening global stability and shared prosperity,” he said.
PM Modi said that to infuse new momentum and energy into the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership over the next decade, Vision 2035 was being launched.
“This will serve as a roadmap for a strong, trusted, and ambitious partnership in the areas of technology, defence, climate, education, and people-to-people connectivity,” he said.
PM Modi said that a Defence Industrial Roadmap had been developed to deepen collaboration in defence and security.
“We will also work to further strengthen our Technology Security Initiative,” he said. “It is our commitment that, from AI to Critical Minerals, Semiconductors to Cyber Security, we shall create the future together.”
PM Modi said that in the field of education as well, both countries were writing a new chapter together.
“Six universities from the UK are opening campuses in India. Just last week, the University of Southampton inaugurated its campus in Gurugram, India,” he said. “We thank Prime Minister Starmer and his government for their strong condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. We are united in our view that there can be no place for double standards in the fight against terrorism. We also agree that forces with extremist ideologies must not be allowed to misuse democratic freedoms.”
PM Modi said that those who misuse democratic freedoms to undermine democracy itself must be held to account.
“On the matter of extradition of economic offenders as well, our agencies will continue to work together in close coordination and cooperation,” he said. “We have continued to share our perspectives on peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the situation in West Asia. We support the early restoration of peace and stability. Respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries is essential. Today’s era demands development, not expansionism.”
PM Modi said: “Last month, in the tragic accident that took place in Ahmedabad, several of those who lost their lives were our brothers and sisters from the UK. We extend our heartfelt condolences to their families. The people of Indian origin living in the UK serve as a living bridge in our relationship. They did not just bring curry from India, but also creativity, commitment, and character. Their contribution is not limited to the UK’s thriving economy, but it is equally visible in the country’s culture, sports, and public service.”
Mentioning cricket, he said, “It would be remiss not to mention cricket when India and the UK are coming together, especially during a Test series. For both of us, cricket is not just a game but a passion. And also, a great metaphor for our partnership. There may be a swing and a miss at times. But we always play with a straight bat. We are committed to building a high-scoring, solid partnership.”
PM Modi said that the agreements concluded today, along with Vision 2035, are a milestone that carries forward this very spirit.
He thanked the British PM Starmer for his warm hospitality.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to you to visit India. I am eagerly looking forward to hosting you in India soon,” PM Modi said.
In his remarks, British PM Starmer said it was the biggest and economically most significant trade deal that the UK had signed since leaving the European Union.
