Prime Minister Narendra Modi and newly elected UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham held their first official telephone conversation, agreeing to strengthen cooperation across artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, defence, trade and security. The discussion marked the first direct engagement between the two leaders since Burnham assumed office and reaffirmed the strategic importance both countries place on technology-led collaboration and economic partnership.
Prime Minister Modi congratulated Burnham on taking office and conveyed his best wishes for the new administration. During the conversation, both leaders reiterated their commitment to further expanding the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with a particular focus on innovation, advanced technologies and long-term economic growth.
Artificial intelligence emerged as one of the key areas of discussion. The leaders agreed to deepen collaboration in AI and other emerging technologies, reflecting the increasing role these sectors play in shaping bilateral relations. India and the United Kingdom have been steadily expanding cooperation in digital innovation, research, advanced manufacturing and technology development, with AI becoming a central pillar of their strategic engagement.
Beyond technology, the two prime ministers discussed strengthening defence cooperation and enhancing collaboration on security issues. Both countries have intensified defence ties in recent years through joint exercises, industrial partnerships and technology collaboration. The latest conversation signals continued momentum in expanding cooperation across strategic sectors amid an evolving global geopolitical landscape.
Trade and investment also featured prominently during the call. India and the UK have significantly expanded their economic relationship in recent years through increased bilateral investments and closer commercial engagement. Both leaders acknowledged the importance of maintaining strong economic ties while exploring new opportunities for collaboration in innovation-driven industries and advanced technologies.
The leaders also exchanged views on developments in the Middle East, including efforts to restore normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Given the waterway's importance to global energy supplies and international trade, both sides recognised the need for stability and the uninterrupted movement of commercial shipping. The discussion reflected shared concerns over regional security and its potential impact on global supply chains and economic stability.
India and the United Kingdom have increasingly aligned their cooperation around technology and innovation as both governments pursue ambitious digital transformation agendas. AI has become a major area of engagement, spanning research collaboration, responsible AI development, digital public infrastructure and private sector innovation. Industry observers note that closer cooperation between the two countries could create opportunities for businesses, startups and academic institutions working on next-generation technologies.
The conversation also highlighted the growing importance of emerging technologies in diplomatic engagement. As governments around the world seek to balance technological advancement with national security and economic competitiveness, AI is becoming an increasingly prominent element of bilateral and multilateral discussions. India has positioned itself as a global AI innovation hub, while the UK continues to expand investments in AI research, regulation and commercial deployment.
The first official conversation between Modi and Burnham underscores the continuity of the India-UK partnership despite political changes in London. With both countries placing strategic emphasis on technology, defence and economic cooperation, the leaders agreed to remain in close contact and continue advancing shared priorities across multiple sectors. The discussion signals continued momentum in strengthening one of India's key international partnerships while reinforcing AI and emerging technologies as central pillars of future bilateral engagement.