PM Modi Thanks Outgoing UK PM Sunak. Congratulates Successor Keir Starmer

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to outgoing British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for strengthening India-UK ties. On X, Modi wrote, "Thank you Rishi Sunak 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."

Sunak, the first British Indian PM, conceded defeat after a historic Conservative Party loss. His 20-month tenure ended following a significant plunge in seats, despite his notable achievements and trailblazing role. In his acceptance speech, Sunak acknowledged the defeat and took responsibility for the loss, expressing regret for the efforts of many Conservative candidates.

Sunak's premiership began in October 2022 as the youngest PM in 210 years and the UK's first non-white leader. He faced challenges including high inflation, which he managed to reduce, but a strong anti-incumbency sentiment grew against his divided party.

Sunak, born to Indian-descent parents who migrated from Kenya in the 1960s, rose to prominence during the Covid pandemic as the UK's first Indian-origin Chancellor. His tenure saw strained relations with then-PM Boris Johnson amid the "partygate" scandal. As PM, Sunak's responsibilities included negotiating a stalled free trade agreement with India.

PM Modi also congratulated new British PM Keir Starmer on Labour's landslide victory, expressing hopes for a strengthened India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

"Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Keir Starmer on the remarkable victory in the UK general elections," Modi wrote on X, looking forward to positive and constructive collaboration.