/wion/media/agency_attachments/2024/12/26/2024-12-26t112006978z-wion-white-logo-for-website-2-1.png){kind=logo}
/wion/media/agency_attachments/2024/12/13/2024-12-13t071548098z-wionlogo.webp)
/wion/media/member_avatars/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2024/09/26/456938-author-profilr.png)
/wion/media/member_avatars/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2024/09/26/456938-author-profilr.png)
/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/07/05/441875-modi-keir.png)
New Delhi, India
After the Labour Party won the UK elections with a resounding victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated PM-elect Keir Starmer on Friday (July 5).
“Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Keir Starmer on the remarkable victory in the UK general elections. I look forward to our positive and constructive collaboration to further strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in all areas, fostering mutual growth and prosperity,” PM Modi wrote on X.
A shift in the party's stance towards India is evident in its election manifesto, which pledges to forge a "new strategic partnership" that includes a free trade pact.
The former human rights barrister turned politician has also spearheaded attempts to mend fences with British Indians who felt cut off from their country under former leader Jeremy Corbyn because of the latter's perceived anti-India position on Kashmir.
Also read: Why did Conservatives lose UK election? How Sunak managed to end 14-year Tory rule
In another tweet, PM Modi complimented ex-PM Rishi Sunak for his "admirable leadership" and contributions to strengthening India-UK relations.
"Thank you @RishiSunak for your admirable leadership of the UK, and your active contribution to deepen the ties between India and the UK during your term in office. Best wishes to you and your family for the future," PM Modi wrote on X.
Watch | UK: Big win for Labour Party in UK elections, Keir Starmer says 'Public ready for change'
After more than 10 years in the opposition, the Labour Party emerged victorious in Thursday's legislative polls, taking 412 seats in the 650-seat House of Commons and toppling the 14-year-old Conservative government.
“Our task is nothing less than renewing the ideas that hold this country together. National renewal. Whoever you are, wherever you started in life, if you work hard, if you play by the rules, this country should give you a fair chance to get on,” Starmer said in his victory speech.
(With inputs from agencies)