PM Modi discusses Khalistani extremist issue with British counterpart; says radicalism, violent extremism have no space in democratic societies
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue of Khalistani extremism in a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasizing that radicalism and violent extremism must not be tolerated in democratic societies, reports 24brussels.
During a special briefing on Starmer’s visit to India, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra noted that Modi asserted that freedoms enjoyed within societies should not be exploited by violent extremists, calling for decisive action against such threats. The discussion highlighted the need for legal frameworks on both sides to combat these elements effectively.
Modi also extended his condolences to the victims of the recent terror attack in Manchester, where two individuals lost their lives after a car was driven into the crowd earlier this month. The leaders strongly condemned terrorism and violent extremism across all forms and expressed a mutual commitment to a zero-tolerance approach.
In a joint statement released post-meeting, Modi and Starmer called for international cooperation to counter terrorism, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive efforts in line with the UN Charter. They committed to combatting the financing of terrorism, the cross-border movement of terrorists, and enhancing technological safeguards against terrorist exploitation.
The leaders denounced the April 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, reaffirming their resolve to strengthen collaboration against globally recognized terrorists and their sponsors.
Starmer’s two-day visit included meetings with Indian business leaders, with a record 125-member British business delegation accompanying him. This is noted as the largest business delegation to visit India, consisting of nine vice-chancellors from major UK universities, all with plans to engage in India. The British Prime Minister participated in collaborative events, including a visit to Yash Raj Films for potential cooperation in film production.
On the officials’ schedule, Modi received Starmer at Raj Bhavan, where they engaged in extensive discussions ranging from regional affairs to global challenges. They also addressed university vice-chancellors from the UK. The discussions touched on the Free Trade Agreement, which is currently in the ratification stage in both nations.
Modi and Starmer acknowledged the opportunities presented by this visit to deepen economic ties and leverage tariff reductions under the FTA. The UK Secretary of Business and Trade and the Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry reviewed trade relations, revealing new joint investments aimed at enhancing the climate technology startup fund, contributing to the FTA’s innovation chapter.
The two prime ministers also addressed the India-UK CEO Forum and the Global Fintech Fest during their discussions.
