What Did Lord Rami Ranger Say About PM Modi's Leadership and the FTA with India?

London, July 23 (NationPress) British Indian entrepreneur Lord Rami Ranger on Wednesday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, describing the anticipated signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as an important milestone and a mutually beneficial outcome for both India and the United Kingdom.

In an exclusive interview with IANS just prior to PM Modi's two-day visit, Ranger, who is a member (Peer) of the UK’s upper house and of Indian descent, expressed admiration for the progress India has made in the last decade. He asserted that the UK's economy is poised for growth through collaboration with India.

"This will be a momentous occasion as the Prime Minister is set to sign a Free Trade Agreement with the nation that governed India for 200 years. Once a colony, we now stand as equals. This is a significant achievement and a testament to Prime Minister Modi's leadership. Over the past decade, we have seen substantial development in India, such as the 'Make in India' initiative. The FTA will foster technology transfer and is a match made in heaven, benefiting multiple countries. The British economy will also thrive by engaging with the Indian market. The entire world stands to gain from this arrangement," stated the 78-year-old Ranger.

He added that the Free Trade Agreement would ensure market stability for both nations and provide support to traders.

Earlier today, PM Modi commenced his two-day visit to the UK at the invitation of his British counterpart, Keir Starmer. This marks PM Modi's fourth visit to the UK since he took office. During his trip, he will meet with Starmer and has plans to visit King Charles III.

In May, PM Modi and Starmer announced the successful conclusion of a mutually beneficial India-UK FTA, anticipated to double trade between the two nations to $120 billion by 2030. Under this agreement, 99% of Indian exports to the UK will enjoy zero duty, as detailed in an official statement.

"We are all incredibly excited and very pleased that Prime Minister Modi is visiting London. I wish he had more time for everyone, especially for all Indians, who are eagerly waiting to celebrate with him... We take great pride in what he is doing for our nation," expressed London-based businessman Ramesh Arora.

Over the years, the historical relationship between India and the UK has evolved into a strong, multifaceted partnership. This relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021, showcasing tremendous growth across diverse sectors including trade, economy, defence, security, climate change, green energy, healthcare, education, and people-to-people interactions.

Regarding PM Modi's UK visit, Jayu Shah from Friends of India Society International (FISI), UK stated, "We are eager to welcome PM Modi in the UK. Trade agreement negotiations have been ongoing for 20 years. Now, PM Modi has successfully brought this deal to fruition as the two countries prepare to sign it. India is recognized as 'Vishwaguru', and all nations acknowledge its significance. India is the largest investor in the UK in terms of business."

In his departure statement, PM Modi remarked that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has made remarkable strides in recent years, reflecting growth across various sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health, and interpersonal relationships.

"During my meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, we will have the chance to further strengthen our economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth, and job creation in both countries. I also look forward to meeting with His Majesty King Charles III during this visit," he added.