‘Concerned over terrorism, civilian deaths’: PM, Rishi Sunak discuss Israel-Hamas war

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak had a telephonic conversation on Friday as they discussed the developments in West Asia and the war between Israel and Hamas and expressed deep concern about terrorism, the worsening security situation and the loss of civilian lives.

“Both leaders expressed deep concern at terrorism, the worsening security situation and the loss of civilian lives. They agreed on the need for regional peace, security, stability and continued humanitarian assistance,” the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement.

PM Modi congratulated Sunak on the successful completion of one year in office and they welcomed progress being made for an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, according to the statement.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Earlier this evening, I spoke to UK PM Rishi Sunak. Discussed means to strengthen bilateral relations and exchanged views on the situation in West Asia. We agree that there is no place for terror and violence.”

“Death of civilians is a serious concern. Need to work towards regional peace, security stability and continued humanitarian assistance,” the Prime Minister added.

The statement said the two leaders reiterated their commitment to continuing to strengthen bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, including in the areas of trade, investment, emerging technology, defence, security, health and others, officials said.

The leaders agreed to remain in touch and exchanged greetings for the festive occasion of Diwali, it added.

In an interview with news agency PTI in early September, Sunak had said there was “still some way to go” for a free trade pact with India to be finalised. He, however, appeared confident that the final outcome would be a “forward-looking” and “modern” deal that would benefit both sides and facilitate the shared ambition of doubling trade by 2030.