Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart Keer Starmer shared a light moment during their joint press statement on Thursday, as the two leaders addressed the media after their talks in London.
During the conversation, when translations were being provided for questions and answers, Prime Minister Modi made a clear comment saying, “Don’t worry, we can use English words in between. Don’t worry about it.”
Britain’s Prime Minister Kir Starmer smiled and replied, “I think we understand each other well.”
This friendly exchange created an atmosphere for the rest of the conversation, where Prime Minister Modi gave the example of cricket to describe the Indo-Bitten partnership. He said, “Sometimes there may be swings and sometimes omissions, but we always play directly with the bat,” and said that the two countries are committed to creating a high-scores, strong partnerships.
Prime Minister Modi’s remarks came at a time when India and Britain have signed a comprehensive economic and trade agreement during a joint press statement with British Prime Minister Kir Starmer and the two leaders have supported the India-Britain Vision 2035.
The Indian Test cricket team is on a tour of England and this series is seeing a tough struggle between the bat and the ball.
Prime Minister Modi said, “When India and Britain are coming together, especially during the Test series, it will be my mistake not to mention cricket. Cricket is not just a game, but a passion for both of us. And at the same time, it is also a great symbol of our partnership.”
He added, “Sometimes there can be swing and miss. But we always play with the bat directly. We are committed to creating a high-scores solid partnership. The agreement reached today, with our Vision 2035, is a milestone that leads to this feeling.”
Prime Minister Modi, who on a two-day visit to Britain, said that the day is a historic milestone in the Indo-Bitten bilateral relations.
He said, “I am glad that after years of dedicated efforts, today the comprehensive economic and trade agreement between our two countries has concluded. This agreement is only more than an economic partnership; it is also a blueprint for shared prosperity. On one hand, it paves the way for a better market access to the British for Indian clothes, shoes, gems and jewelery, seafood and engineering items.”
He added, “This will also open new opportunities for India’s agricultural products and processed food industry. Most, this agreement will be especially beneficial for the youth, farmers, fishermen and MSME sector of India. On the other hand, products made in Britain, such as medical equipment and aerospace components, will become more accessible and easeeous for Indian consumers and industries.”
Prime Minister Modi said that along with the trade agreement, the double contribution agreement has also been agreed.
He said, “This will bring new pace in service sectors of both countries, especially technology and finance.
He said, “These agreements will promote bilateral investment and create new employment opportunities in the two countries. In addition, these agreements between two vibrant democracy and major global economies will also contribute to strengthening global stability and shared prosperity.”
