Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated UK’s next PM Keir Starmer on his Labour Party's historic victory in the general elections. He also praised outgoing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his leadership.
Starmer's Labour Party secured a commanding majority in Thursday’s parliamentary polls, securing 412 seats in the 650-seat House of Commons, and ending 14 years of Conservative rule.
PM Modi said he was eager to collaborate with the new UK government to further bolster bilateral and strategic ties between the two nations.
"Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Keir Starmer on the remarkable victory in the UK general elections. I look forward to our positive and constructive collaboration to further strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in all areas, fostering mutual growth and prosperity," PM Modi tweeted.
In another tweet, PM Modi thanked Sunak, Britain’s first Indian-origin premier, for his efforts during his tenure.
"Thank you, Rishi Sunak, for your admirable leadership of the UK, and your active contribution to deepen the ties between India and the UK during your term in office. Best wishes to you and your family for the future."
The Conservative Party, led by Sunak, suffered its worst electoral defeat in history, attributed to issues such as the cost-of-living crisis, internal turmoil, and voter dissatisfaction with the party's performance over the past years.
The UK election results saw the Labour Party win a landslide victory, with Starmer set to become the next Prime Minister. Labour's victory reflects a significant shift in UK politics, with Starmer pledging “national renewal” and a return to public service.
“Our task is nothing less than renewing the ideas that hold this country together. National renewal. If you work hard, if you play by the rules, this country should give you a fair chance to get onâ€æ We have to restore that,” Starmer said in his victory speech.