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PM Modi Meets King Charles After India-UK Trade Deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met King Charles III at Sandringham House on July 24, shortly after signing a landmark Free Trade Agreement with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The visit marked a renewed momentum in India–UK relations as both nations look to strengthen economic and cultural cooperation.

Symbolic Gift Highlights Shared Vision

During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi presented King Charles with a sapling under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign—an environmental initiative encouraging tree planting in honour of mothers. The sapling is expected to be planted later this year on the royal estate, symbolising mutual commitment to environmental conservation.

Areas of Collaboration

The discussion between the two leaders focused on a wide range of topics including trade, health, education, renewable energy, Ayurveda, yoga, and sustainability. The interaction underscored the growing scope of the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which now includes deeper engagement on climate change and cultural exchange.

Highlights of the Trade Deal

The Free Trade Agreement signed earlier in the day reduces or eliminates tariffs on a wide range of goods and services. India will remove tariffs on 99% of UK exports, including medical devices and Scotch whisky, while the UK will cut duties on Indian exports like textiles, footwear, and gems. Scotch whisky duties in India will be slashed from 150% to 75% initially, and further to 40% over the next decade. British car import taxes will also be reduced from over 100% to 10% under a phased system.

Economic Impact and Next Steps

The deal is projected to increase annual bilateral trade by over £25 billion (around $34 billion) by 2040 and deliver £4.8 billion in economic benefits to the UK each year. Both countries now await parliamentary approvals before the agreement comes into effect, which is expected by mid-2026.

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