5 takeaways from PM Modi, UK’s Sunak phone call where they discussed early conclusion of FTA negotiations

As India and the UK inch closer to reaching a deal over the free trade agreement (FTA), Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak to discuss an early conclusion of the negotiations.

The 14th round of negotiations between the officials of the two countries took place in New Delhi. Following the meeting, Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce L. Satya Srinivas said, “The majority of the chapters are either closed or at an advanced stage of negotiation. Discussions are being held at the higher level as well as at the team level to iron out differences.”

Meanwhile, earlier this week, India signed a free trade agreement with the four-nation European Free Trade Association (EFTA) under Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.

5 key takeaways from conversation between PM Modi and Sunak:

1 – Both the leaders discussed ways to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

2 – The two leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest

3 – PM Modi and Sunak expressed satisfaction with the progress made under the Roadmap 2030 in diverse areas including trade, investment, defence, security, emerging technologies and others

4 – They assessed positively the progress made toward the early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement

5 – PM Sunak and Indian Prime Minister Modi also agreed to remain in touch and exchanged greetings on the upcoming festive occasion of Holi