PM Modi Congratulates New UK PM Andy Burnham
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Andy Burnham on assuming office as the United Kingdom’s new prime minister, expressing confidence that India and Britain will deepen cooperation across trade, defence, technology and investment.
Modi Congratulates Andy Burnham
In his message, Modi said India and the UK are connected by shared democratic values and maintain wide-ranging cooperation. He also highlighted the strong people-to-people relationship between the two countries.
The prime minister said he looked forward to working closely with Burnham to strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advance the bilateral Vision 2035 roadmap.
Vision 2035 provides a long-term framework for cooperation in areas including economic growth, education, innovation, clean energy, security and cultural exchanges.
India-UK Trade Partnership
Modi said the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement entering into force in July would provide additional momentum to bilateral relations. The agreement is expected to improve market access and encourage further trade and investment between India and the UK.
Both governments have identified technology, defence, education and climate-related initiatives as important areas for future cooperation. The UK also hosts a large Indian-origin community that plays a significant role in the relationship.
Andy Burnham Becomes UK Prime Minister
Burnham assumed office on July 20 after King Charles III invited him to form a government. He succeeded Keir Starmer, who resigned after serving as prime minister for approximately two years.
A former mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham returned to Parliament in June 2026 and was elected Labour Party leader on July 16. He previously served as Britain’s health secretary and culture secretary.
In his first Downing Street address, Burnham promised changes aimed at addressing living costs, decentralising political power and strengthening the British economy. He also pledged to maintain the UK’s international defence commitments.
