PM Modi and UK PM Sunak Discuss West Asia Developments and War Between Israel and Hamas

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British colleague Rishi Sunak spoke over the phone on West Asian developments and the war between Israel and Hamas. They also shared their extreme worry about terrorism, the deteriorating security situation, and the death toll among civilians.

"Deep concern about terrorism, the deteriorating security situation, and the loss of innocent life was conveyed by both presidents. They agreed that ongoing humanitarian help, peace, security, and stability in the area are essential," the PMO said in a statement.

According to the statement, Modi congratulated Sunak on concluding his first year in office with success and expressed gratitude for the work being made toward an early signing of a free trade agreement that would benefit both parties.

Modi said on X, "Spoke with UK PM Rishi Sunak earlier this evening." discussed ways to improve ties between the two countries and shared opinions on the state of affairs in West Asia. We both agree that violence and terror have no place here." "Death of civilians is a serious concern," he said. The pursuit of regional stability, security, and peace as well as ongoing humanitarian aid is necessary." As to the official release, the leaders reaffirmed their resolve to further enhance their bilateral comprehensive strategic cooperation, including domains such as trade, investment, emerging technology, defense, security, health, and others.

It also said that the leaders shared pleasantries for the joyous celebration of Diwali and decided to stay in contact.

During an interview with PTI in early September, Sunak expressed that there was still work to be done in order to finalize a free trade agreement with India. However, he seemed optimistic that the agreement would ultimately be a "forward-looking" and "modern" agreement that would benefit both parties and support their shared goal of doubling trade by 2030.