PM Modi Hails Indian Diaspora, Signs Landmark CETA with UK

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday commended the Indian diaspora in the United Kingdom, referring to them as a critical connector strengthening the ties between India and the UK. He recognized their contributions beyond traditional sectors, extending into creativity, commitment, and character, during a joint press briefing alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Highlighting the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), Modi underscored the diaspora's impact on cultural and economic links. Earlier, the much-anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement was finalized, aiming to enhance goods and services movement between the two countries, amidst Modi's two-day official visit to the UK.

In the announcement, a Double Contribution Convention was revealed to boost service sector cooperation, especially in technology and finance. Modi also introduced 'Vision 2035', a strategic plan fostering collaboration across sectors like technology, defence, climate, education, and personal exchanges, projecting a roadmap for the coming decade.

The session also saw the introduction of a defence industrial roadmap and initiatives like the Technology Security Initiative to bolster ties in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, critical minerals, and cybersecurity. "These agreements symbolize a partnership between two democracies and major economies, enhancing global stability and prosperity," Modi articulated.

Plans for new UK university campuses in India were shared, including the University of Southampton's recent inauguration in Gurugram. Reflecting on cricket, Modi likened the sport to the India-UK partnership, stressing commitment to a high-scoring collaboration. He expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by the UK Prime Minister and invited him to visit India.

The transformative CETA is expected to unlock export avenues, notably benefiting sectors such as textiles, leather, and toys, thereby creating employment and empowering various enterprises. A release by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry noted unprecedented market access for Indian goods, promising zero-duty on 99 per cent of tariff lines.

(With inputs from agencies.)