MuPrime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterpart, U.K. PM Keir Starmer, hailed the partnership between the two countries and underlined that the growing partnership is crucial for global stability and economic progress in the era of global instability.“India and the U.K. are natural partners. In the current era of global instability, this partnership remains a vital pillar of global stability and economic progress,” said Mr. Modi, adding that the government is working to combine the U.K.’s industrial expertise and R&D with India’s talent and scale.U.K. PM Starmer in India LIVE updates - October 9, 2025A joint statement by Mr. Starmer and Mr. Modi focused on India-U.K. relations, economic progress, global stability, defence co-production, and potential for technology partnerships between both countries. The joint statement reiterated the advantages of the recently signed U.K.-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and initiatives launched, supporting innovators and entrepreneurs.Mr. Modi called CETA “historic”, saying this agreement will reduce import costs, create new employment opportunities for youth, boost trade, and benefit both our industries and consumers. Mr Modi said, “Mr. Starmer’s visit symbolises the new energy and broad vision in the India-U.K. partnership.”Mr. Keir Starmer called CETA a “breakthrough” moment, saying it was in the making for years, slashing tariffs, which will increase access to each other’s markets and make life better for both nations.This is Mr. Starmer’s first visit to India after being appointed as the U.K. Prime Minister. Along with the delegation of over 100 entrepreneurs, cultural representatives, and university Vice-Chancellors, he has been on a two-day visit to India to discuss the CETA that the countries signed on 24 July, the negotiations for which were launched on 13 January 2022.