India, UK Seal Free Trade Pact, Script Strategic Partnership

INDIA and the UK finalised a long-anticipated free trade agreement (FTA) on Tuesday amid New Delhi's efforts to strengthen global partnerships in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and the recent tariff tensions triggered by US President Donald Trump, which pushed both nations to accelerate trade negotiations.

- JAYANTH JACOB @New Delhi

• India gets strategic partner amid conflict with Pak

• Up to 99% of exports to be exempt from tariffs

• Indian professionals to get better access to UK job market

Sealed after three years of stop-start talks, the deal targets a $34 billion trade boost by 2040 through easier market access and fewer trade barriers. After speaking on phone with his British counterpart Keir Starmer, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the pact is 'ambitious and mutually beneficial'.

"Along with a Double Contribution Convention, these landmark agreements will deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both our economies," Modi wrote on X.