London, June 20: India and the United Kingdom have engaged in discussions focused on advancing collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), new technologies, research, and innovation. Both nations explored the potential of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) to create new opportunities, promote innovation, and enhance their economies.
The discussions took place during a meeting between India’s High Commissioner P. Kumaran and Imran Mian, the Permanent Secretary of the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). The Indian High Commission provided this information.
The Indian High Commission in London shared on social media platform ‘X’ that High Commissioner P. Kumaran had a productive and positive meeting with DSIT’s Permanent Secretary Imran Mian. They discussed enhancing cooperation in AI, new technologies, research, and innovation, as well as leveraging the CETA.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the CETA will officially come into effect on July 15, 2026. He described this as a “historic step” in the relationship between the two countries. Modi emphasized that this agreement would significantly boost trade and investment between India and the UK.
In a post on ‘X’, Prime Minister Modi stated, “This is a historic achievement for India-UK relations. I am pleased that the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement will be implemented from July 15, 2026. This agreement will greatly strengthen trade and investment between our nations.”
He further noted that it would open numerous new opportunities for Indian farmers, workers, MSMEs, startups, and innovators, aiding in achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047. Modi also expressed satisfaction during the G7 summit with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer regarding the renewed momentum in economic relations.
On June 4, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar met with UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper in New Delhi. The two leaders reviewed ongoing cooperation in areas such as trade, technology, supply chains, defense, climate, education, and people-to-people ties. They also discussed the current global situation.
Following the meeting, Jaishankar tweeted on ‘X’, “The India-UK partnership is now progressing towards shared economic goals and high-tech development. It was a pleasure to welcome UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper to India. We reviewed the progress in trade, technology, supply chains, defense, climate, education, and people-to-people relations, and discussed new opportunities in clean energy, AI, and critical minerals.”
He mentioned that both leaders exchanged views on several global issues, including Ukraine, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific region. He affirmed that the India-UK comprehensive strategic partnership is continuously advancing under the “Vision 2035.”
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