PM Modi and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham Pledge Deeper Strategic Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held his first official phone conversation with the United Kingdom's new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, on July 31, 2026. During the call, Modi congratulated Burnham on his recent assumption of office and expressed India's commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. Burnham reciprocated by outlining his administration's ambition to further enhance the UK-India relationship, identifying it as a critical pillar of Britain’s foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders agreed that the partnership is essential for global stability and economic growth.

The discussion covered a wide range of critical sectors, including advanced defence technology and Artificial Intelligence. The two leaders explored ways to deepen technical collaboration to ensure both nations remain at the forefront of digital innovation and secure infrastructure. A significant portion of the call was also dedicated to global security, specifically addressing concerns regarding the Strait of Hormuz. They discussed the importance of maintaining open and secure maritime trade routes, which are vital for energy security and global commerce, particularly for the Indian and British economies.

Looking ahead, Modi and Burnham committed to taking the bilateral relationship to new heights through sustained engagement. The conversation touched upon the ongoing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with both sides indicating a desire to resolve outstanding issues and conclude a mutually beneficial deal. The successful conclusion of this call signals a smooth transition in UK-India relations under the Burnham government. The next phase will likely involve high-level ministerial visits to finalize agreements on trade, migration, and joint defence production projects.