Mumbai: India and the UK have reached a consensus to broaden bilateral exchanges between their armed forces and collaborate on naval system development, as stated in a joint declaration. The agreements were finalized following high-level talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Mumbai.

According to Anadolu Agency, the discussions led to a decision to enhance interactions between the armed forces of India and the UK through joint exercises, training, and capacity building. Additionally, the leaders announced an agreement to initiate the supply of Lightweight Multirole Missile systems valued at $468 million via a government-to-government route. This development is intended to bolster India's air defense capabilities.

Furthermore, India and the UK plan to finalize an intergovernmental agreement focusing on the development of maritime electric propulsion systems for Indian Naval platforms. Starmer's visit to India marks his first official trip to the country, and he is accompanied by a 125-member delegation, representing the largest government trade mission to India.

The bilateral trade between India and the UK is currently valued at approximately $56 billion, with an ambitious joint target to double this figure by 2030. In a separate agreement, Modi and Starmer extended their support to the US deal on Gaza, designed to bring an end to the conflict in the besieged region. The leaders underscored their commitment to cooperating with regional partners in pursuit of a lasting and equitable peace, moving towards a two-state solution.