At the G20 summit in Rio this month Sir Keir Starmer met with Indian PM Narendra Modi to discuss re-starting trade talks — a move that could re-shape UK-India relations
The UK government made it clear that its not going to bend on immigration rules despite Indias wish for easier visa access (especially in tech-related jobs): this stance remains un-changed since early negotiations
About 2 years ago Boris Johnson started these talks hoping to make a deal with worlds 5th-biggest economy; however things didnt go as planned and stopped this spring due to elections in both countries. Modi got his 3rd term but lost some power while Sunak left his post mid-summer
- Technology cooperation
- Climate change initiatives
- Educational partnerships
- Business investment boost
Jonathan Reynolds‚ the Business-Trade Secretary pointed out: “A good deal here works for both sides; India isnt just any partner — its investments already support over 600k jobs across our countries“
The Labour government wants to make this more than just trade: its looking at building what they call a new strategic partnership. Starmer sees this as part of his plan to fix UKs slow growth — something hes made a key focus since taking office
Boosting economic growth is key to improving living standards for working people
The deal-making process needs careful balance between getting good trade terms and keeping control of UK borders; its a tricky line to walk but government thinks its do-able