Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Boris Johnson discussed bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and global issues.
According to the State Department, the 2030 roadmap will pave the way for a deeper commitment for the next ten years in the areas of people-to-people communication, trade and economics, defense and security, climate action and health.
Modi and Johnson spoke about Covid-19 and the ongoing cooperation to combat the epidemic, including cooperation on vaccines.
The Indian Prime Minister thanked his British counterpart for the prompt medical assistance provided by the UK in the wake of the dangerous second wave of Covid-19 in India.
Johnson also appreciated India’s provision of assistance to the UK and other countries over the past year, including through the provision of medicines and vaccines.
The two parties launched an “Enhanced Trade Partnership” to unleash trade potential between the world’s fifth and sixth economies and double bilateral trade by 2030.
As part of that initiative, India and the United Kingdom agreed to negotiate a comprehensive and balanced free trade agreement, including an interim trade agreement, for early benefits.
The strengthening of the bilateral trade partnership is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in both countries.
The new “Global Innovation Partnership” between India and the UK was announced at the virtual summit, which aims to support the transfer of inclusive Indian innovations to selected developing countries, starting with Africa. The two parties agreed to enhance cooperation in new and emerging technologies, including digital products, information and communication technology, and supply chain work.
Also, strengthening ties in the defense and security arena, including in the maritime, counterterrorism and cyberspace fields.
They reaffirmed their commitment to the environment to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and agreed to participate closely in the preparation for the 26th UN Conference (UN Climate Change Conference), in the United Kingdom at the end of the year.
In addition, India and the United Kingdom launched a Global Partnership on Migration and Mobility that will facilitate greater opportunities for students and professionals from both countries.
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