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New Delhi: In a recent phone call, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed their commitment to elevate the India-UK comprehensive strategic partnership and fully leverage the benefits of the newly activated trade agreement.

This conversation marked the first interaction between the two leaders since Burnham took office on July 20, succeeding Keir Starmer.

During their discussion, they addressed the situation in West Asia, agreeing to collaborate on de-escalation efforts and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, as noted in a British statement.

Modi took to social media to congratulate Burnham on his new role and wished him success in his tenure.

He stated, "We agreed to collaborate across various sectors, including technology, innovation, defense, security, clean energy, education, and enhancing people-to-people connections to elevate the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights."

Modi also emphasized the importance of the recently operationalized India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, which aims to foster trade and investment for mutual prosperity.

This significant trade deal, described as one of the largest in recent history, came into effect on July 15, securing zero-duty access for nearly 99% of India's exports to the UK.

According to the British readout, Burnham began the dialogue by highlighting the strength of the UK-India partnership and its positive impact on local communities in the UK.

He expressed his aspirations to further strengthen the UK-India relationship through the UK-India Vision 2035 framework and robust people-to-people ties.

Burnham acknowledged the vital contributions of Indian communities in the UK, while Modi drew parallels between their respective home cities, Manchester and Ahmedabad, referring to the latter as the "Manchester of India."

On the topic of trade, Modi reiterated the significance of the new free trade agreement, which is expected to create numerous opportunities for citizens in both nations.

Burnham also expressed his commitment to the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, with both leaders recognizing the potential for collaboration in advanced technologies like artificial intelligence.

The conversation concluded with both leaders agreeing to continue their close cooperation regarding the Middle East situation and looking forward to future discussions and an in-person meeting soon.