PM Modi and UK's Sunak Join Forces to Condemn Hamas Attacks and Bolster Trade Relations

Prime Minister,Narendra Modi,Rishi Sunak,West Asia,Hamas,Israel,Palestinian,Free Trade Agreement,Cricket World Cup,UK-India Relationship ----In a recent telephone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak, the urgent need to deescalate tensions in West Asia was discussed. The two leaders strongly condemned the attacks by Hamas on Israel and emphasized that Hamas did not represent the Palestinian people. They also highlighted the importance of reducing tensions in the broader region. During the call, Sunak expressed the significance of safeguarding innocent civilians in Gaza and ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid into the area. The leaders also addressed the progress in negotiations for the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, agreeing on the importance of securing an ambitious deal that benefits both sides.

However, the unfolding situation in West Asia forced the cancellation of Sunak's potential visit to watch the World Cup cricket match between England and India in Lucknow on October 29. Despite this, the ongoing World Cup was also a topic of discussion during the phone call. Sunak congratulated Modi on India's strong performance in the tournament and expressed hope for England's success during their upcoming Test series in India in January.

The conversation between Modi and Sunak is part of the British Prime Minister's continuing outreach to world leaders regarding the deeply distressing situation in West Asia. While the readout from the Indian side was not immediately available, Modi has spoken with the leaders of Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates in recent days to discuss the situation. Both leaders reiterated the need to deescalate tensions and condemned Hamas's attacks on Israel. They also emphasized the importance of protecting innocent civilians in Gaza and ensuring aid can flow into the affected areas.

The discussions on the free trade agreement reflect the efforts to strengthen the UK-India relationship and secure a mutually beneficial agreement. The leaders' conversation on the ongoing Cricket World Cup showcased their shared interest in sports and the mutual support between the two countries' cricket teams. Sunak congratulated Modi on India's performance and expressed hope for England's success in the upcoming Test series.

Overall, the conversation between Modi and Sunak highlighted their joint condemnation of the attacks by Hamas, their emphasis on deescalating tensions, and their commitment to addressing the humanitarian situation in West Asia. The discussions on the free trade agreement and the Cricket World Cup further solidified the strong bilateral relationship between the UK and India.