New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday, October 11, spoke on the telephone to his British counterpart Boris Johnson and the two leaders reviewed the progress in bilateral relations since their virtual summit earlier this year.
Both the leaders "expressed satisfaction" at the steps already initiated under the Roadmap 2030 adopted during the virtual summit, an MEA release said.
"They also reviewed the progress of the Enhanced Trade Partnership and agreed on the potential of rapidly expanding trade and investment linkages between both countries. The leaders had extensive discussion on issues related to Climate Change, in the context of the forthcoming UNFCCC COP-26 meeting in Glasgow in early November 2021."
Prime Minister Modi conveyed India's commitment to Climate Action, as seen in its ambitious target for expansion of renewable energy and the recently announced National Hydrogen Mission.
Both Mr Modi and Mr Johnson also exchanged views on regional developments, especially the situation in Afghanistan. "In this context, they agreed on the need to develop a common international perspective on issues regarding extremism and terrorism, as well as Human Rights and rights of women and minorities," the release said.
Significantly, the tele talks between two Prime Ministers came after the stalemate in ties on vaccination and travel rows have been ended.
Britain has relaxed norms on Covid vaccines and quarantine issues, giving ease to Indians travelling to that country.
On Friday, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar spoke to his counterpart, Liz Truss, and tweeted rather in a soft tune – "Good to talk to UK Foreign Secretary @trussliz'. Dr Jaishankar further wrote – "Agreed to facilitate travel between our two countries. This will help to implement the Roadmap 2030."
"No quarantine for Indian travellers to the UK fully vaccinated with Covishield or another UK-approved vaccine from October 11. Thanks to the Indian government for close cooperation over last month," tweeted British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis, bringing an end to the stalemate on October 7.
India had also threatened to use the 'reciprocity' card against British travellers to India, but all the bitterness seems to be over.
The 2030 vision between the two countries is for "revitalized and dynamic connections between our people; re-energized trade, investment and technological collaboration that improves the lives and livelihoods of our citizens," enhanced defence and security cooperation that brings a more secure Indian Ocean Region and Indo-Pacific.
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