PM Modi, UK PM Andy Burnham discuss AI, defence, Strait of Hormuz in first phone call
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held his first telephone conversation with newly elected UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, congratulating him on assuming office as the two leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in technology, artificial intelligence, defence, trade and security while also discussing the situation in the Middle East, including efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.In a post on X after the call, PM Modi said he congratulated Burnham on taking office and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening the bilateral partnership.“Delighted to speak with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Andy Burnham. Congratulated him on assuming office and conveyed my best wishes for a successful tenure.”The Prime Minister said both leaders agreed to expand cooperation across multiple strategic sectors.“We agreed to work together across sectors such as technology, innovation, defence, security, clean energy, education and people-to-people ties and take the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights.”PM Modi also said both countries would seek to maximise the benefits of the recently operationalised India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement.“We will also collaborate closely to fully harness the trade and investment opportunities presented by the recently operationalized India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, for the shared prosperity and well-being of both our people.”
UK highlights AI cooperation and vision 2035
According to a statement issued by the UK Prime Minister’s Office, Burnham described the India-UK relationship as a strong partnership that had made a significant contribution to communities across Britain.The statement said Burnham outlined his ambition to further strengthen bilateral ties through the UK-India Vision 2035 framework and stronger people-to-people connections.The UK Prime Minister also praised the contribution of the Indian community to British society, while PM Modi referred to the historical connection between Manchester and Ahmedabad, describing the Gujarat city as the “Manchester of India”.
Leaders discuss AI and emerging technologies
The UK Prime Minister’s Office said Burnham reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, with both leaders identifying artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies as key areas for future collaboration.
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The leaders also welcomed the opportunities created by the recently introduced India-UK Free Trade Agreement, saying it would generate economic benefits and create opportunities for people in both countries.
Middle East and Strait of Hormuz discussed
Beyond bilateral ties, the two leaders discussed the evolving situation in the Middle East and agreed to work closely towards de-escalation.According to Downing Street, both sides also agreed to cooperate in efforts aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital maritime route for global energy supplies and international trade.The UK Prime Minister’s Office said both leaders agreed to remain in close contact and looked forward to speaking again soon and meeting in person at the earliest opportunity.
