Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 19: Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, during his visit to New Delhi, expressed his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a "friend" and praising his vision for India.
Sunak and his family met PM Modi on Tuesday evening for an extensive discussion on various topics. Following the meeting, Modi described Sunak as a "great friend of India" and emphasized his commitment to strengthening India-UK relations.
Taking to X, PM Modi shared, "It was a delight to meet former UK PM, Rishi Sunak, and his family! We had a wonderful conversation on many subjects. Mr. Sunak is a great friend of India and is passionate about even stronger India-UK ties."
Responding to Modi's post, Sunak reiterated his deep connection with India and acknowledged Modi’s leadership in enhancing bilateral relations. "Wonderful to catch up with my friend Narendra Modi. Thank you for so warmly welcoming my family, too! Always exciting to hear your vision for India, and so important the UK-India relationship goes from strength to strength," he posted.
Born to Indian parents with roots in Punjab, Sunak made history as the first Indian-origin Prime Minister of the UK, serving from 2022 to 2024. Throughout his tenure, he championed closer ties between India and the UK, particularly in areas such as trade, technology, finance, and education.
After Sunak's Conservative Party lost the UK general elections in July 2024, PM Modi acknowledged his efforts in fostering stronger bilateral ties. "Thank you, Rishi Sunak, for your admirable leadership of the UK and your active contribution to deepening India-UK relations. Best wishes to you and your family for the future," Modi posted on X.
Sunak, in turn, congratulated PM Modi on his third consecutive electoral victory, emphasizing the enduring strength of the UK-India partnership.
During his tenure as UK Prime Minister, Sunak also recognized India's growing global influence, calling it an "economic superpower" and highlighting its pivotal role in reshaping the world economy alongside nations like Indonesia and Nigeria.