PM Modi Engages in Dialogue with King Charles, Reiterates Commitment to Strengthen India-UK Relations

New Delhi, Dec 19 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a conversation with Britain's King Charles III on Thursday, discussing a variety of topics of shared interest, in addition to exchanging festive greetings for the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.

"I had the pleasure of speaking with HM King Charles III today. We reaffirmed our commitment to enhance India-UK relations. We exchanged perspectives on various mutual interests, including the Commonwealth, climate action, and sustainability. I wished him good health and well-being," Prime Minister Modi shared on X following the call.

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) disclosed that both leaders reflected on the historic ties between their nations and reaffirmed their commitment to further fortify the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that exists between India and the United Kingdom.

"They exchanged views on the Commonwealth of Nations and the recently concluded Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa. Discussions also included various topics of mutual interest, such as Climate Action and sustainability. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for His Majesty’s ongoing advocacy and initiatives on these matters and briefed him on numerous initiatives undertaken by India... The Prime Minister extended his best wishes to the King for his good health and well-being," the PMO's statement noted.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Modi had conveyed his heartfelt wishes for a swift recovery and good health to King Charles.

In response to a post on X by the Royal Family announcing the King's battle with a type of cancer, the Prime Minister commented on February 6: "I join the people of India in wishing a speedy recovery and good health to His Majesty King Charles III."

The two leaders had also addressed the Covid-19 pandemic during their phone dialogue in April 2020, during which Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences for the lives lost in the UK and expressed satisfaction that Prince Charles—who had not yet ascended the throne at that time—had recovered from his own health issues.

King Charles acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Indian diaspora in the UK, particularly members of the National Health Service, who played a crucial role during the pandemic. He also commended the selfless efforts of religious and social organizations within the Indian community in the UK and thanked the Prime Minister for facilitating and assisting UK citizens stranded in India during the crisis.

Both dignitaries also explored Ayurveda, with PM Modi detailing Indian initiatives aimed at teaching basic yoga exercises through short animation videos and sharing easy-to-make traditional remedies to enhance immunity during the Covid pandemic.