In phone call with UK PM Sunak, Prime Minister Modi seeks strong action against anti-India elements

In light of the recent vandalism at the Indian High Commission in London by Khalistani supporters, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on the UK Government to take firm action against anti-India elements. He raised the issue during a phone conversation with UK PM Rishi Sunak on Thursday.

"PM Modi raised the issue of security of Indian diplomatic establishments in the UK and called for strong action against anti-India elements by the UK Government. PM Rishi Sunak conveyed that the UK considers the attack on Indian High Commission totally unacceptable and assured of security of the Indian Mission and its personnel," the Indian Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said after the telephone conversation.

According to the PMO, Prime Minister Modi also raised the issue of economic offenders who have sought refuge in the UK. "He sought progress on the return of these fugitives so that they can appear before the Indian judicial system," the PMO added.

During the conversation, PM Modi extended an invitation to PM Sunak to attend the upcoming G20 Summit, which would take place in September 2023. PM Sunak, in turn, praised the advancements achieved during India's G20 Presidency and reaffirmed the UK's unwavering support for India's efforts and their success.

The leaders reviewed the progress on a number of bilateral issues as part of the India-UK Roadmap 2030. They expressed satisfaction at the recent high-level exchanges and growing cooperation, particularly in trade and economic sectors. They agreed on the need for early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.

PM Modi also conveyed his greetings to PM Sunak and the Indian community in the UK on the eve of Baisakhi. In order to ensure sustained advancement on bilateral matters, the two leaders decided to keep in touch with each other in future.