Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Friday said the signing of a “major trade deal” by countries like India and Britain in a world becoming “more protectionist” sends a “very positive signal” to the world.
Sunak also said in an interactive session at the NDTV World Summit that it was “great” to see the recent trade deal signed. “I had started working on this, and I am happy that the new government has completed it,” he said.
It is noteworthy that in July, India and Britain signed a bilateral free trade agreement (Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement – CETA), which is considered an important step in the long-term strategic partnership of both the countries.
When Sunak was asked about this agreement and the future of India-UK relations, he said, “In today’s world which is becoming increasingly protectionist, two major democracies like India and Britain signing a trade deal is a positive sign. It makes it clear to the business world, civil society, cultural organizations and educational institutions that this relationship is really important.” He also said that India and Britain have a strong foundation of history, culture, family ties and economic partnership, which deeply connects the two countries.
Rishi Sunak said emotionally, “India is a very important country not only for me on a personal level, but also for Britain.”
