Trump tariffs push India, UK closer together .....
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's two-day visit to India this week marks a defining moment for the ties between the two countries, with both sides agreeing to deepen cooperation on trade, defense and technology.
It was Starmer's first official trip to India since taking office in July 2024. The timing of the visit appears to be significant, as it comes amid tensions between India and the US after the Trump administration decided to impose high tariffs on Indian goods.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Starmer said their talks on Thursday focused on efforts to ratify the new trade deal signed during the Indian premier's visit to London in July. In addition to the trade accord, labeled the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), both leaders also agreed to boost cooperation in digital infrastructure, technology, defense, critical minerals and education.
Additionally, with India seeking to modernize and revamp its military, the two countries reached a multimillion-dollar deal that will allow Britain to supply UK-manufactured lightweight missiles, launchers and electric-powered engines for naval ships to the world's most populous country.
