Did PM Modi and UK PM Starmer Discuss India-UK Ties Over 'Chai Pe Charcha' at Chequers?

London, July 24 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a 'Chai Pe Charcha' session with his UK counterpart Keir Starmer at Chequers, the British PM’s picturesque countryside retreat. A photo posted by PM Modi on the social media platform X depicted the two leaders deeply engaged in conversation while enjoying tea.

In his post on X, PM Modi stated, "‘Chai Pe Charcha’ with PM Keir Starmer at Chequers...brewing stronger India-UK ties!"

The two leaders also engaged with business leaders at the venue, highlighting that the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) has unlocked new avenues for trade and investment.

"Interacted with business leaders at Chequers. The signing of the India-UK CETA has opened up new avenues for trade and investment. It marks a pivotal step in strengthening our economic partnership," PM Modi noted in his post on X.

On Thursday, India and the UK officially signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The agreement was executed by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and UK's Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds, during the presence of both Prime Ministers.

Additionally, PM Modi and Starmer signed the eagerly anticipated Free Trade Agreement (FTA), expected to enhance annual bilateral trade by approximately USD 34 billion. Under the landmark FTA, India will reduce tariffs on 90% of UK products, while the UK will cut duties on 99% of Indian exports, greatly simplifying tariff lines and regulatory processes across various sectors.

The leaders also observed an exhibition showcasing flagship products and innovations from both nations. PM Modi mentioned on X, "At Chequers, PM Keir Starmer and I saw an exhibition which provided insight into the robust economic linkages between India and the UK. With the signing of CETA, these linkages will multiply significantly."

Moreover, PM Modi and Starmer interacted with players from Buckinghamshire Street Cricket Hubs, with PM Modi presenting a bat signed by the Indian cricket team that clinched the T20 World Cup.

Sharing highlights of his interaction with the players on X, PM Modi expressed, "India and the UK share a mutual passion for cricket. At Chequers, PM Keir Starmer and I connected with players from Buckinghamshire Street Cricket Hubs. It’s wonderful to witness sports fostering people-to-people ties between our nations. I also gifted my young friends a bat signed by the Indian cricket team that won the T20 World Cup."

The two leaders posed with the Premier League trophy, and PM Modi shared this moment on X, stating, "Football enjoys immense popularity among India's youth, and numerous football clubs in the UK are well-loved in India."

PM Modi expressed his appreciation to Keir Starmer for the gracious welcome at Chequers. The Prime Minister's Office reported that PM Modi engaged in "fruitful discussions" with Starmer following the signing of the India-UK CETA.

"Grateful to PM Keir Starmer for the warm welcome at Chequers. Our discussions reflect a shared commitment to deepen India-UK ties across various sectors," PM Modi stated on X.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister's Office indicated that PM Modi and Starmer endorsed the new India-UK Vision 2035, reaffirming their commitment to unlocking the full potential of a revitalized partnership. This ambitious agreement emphasizes the commitment of both nations to collaborate for mutual growth, prosperity, and to shape a sustainable world amid rapid global changes.

After the meeting, the Prime Minister's Office shared on X, "PM @narendramodi held fruitful talks with UK PM @Keir_Starmer following the successful signing of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)."

"The agreement paves the way for enhanced economic cooperation between the two countries, providing improved market access for Indian textiles, footwear, gems and jewelry, engineering goods, agricultural products, processed foods, and more. The leaders also unveiled Vision 2035, aimed at strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on essential areas such as defense, education, semiconductors, sustainable development, and people-to-people ties," it added.