Indian PM Modi speaks to UK PM Rishi Sunak over phone, seeks progress on return of economic offenders

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APRIL 13, 2023

NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a telephonic conversation with UK’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

During the phone conversations, the two leaders reviewed the progress on a number of bilateral issues, particularly in trade and economic sectors. The Prime Minister also sought progress on the return of economic offenders.

“PM Modi raised the issue of security of Indian diplomatic establishments in the UK and called for strong action against anti-India elements. Rishi Sunak conveyed that the UK considers the attack on Indian High Commission totally unacceptable and assured of security of the Indian Mission and its personnel,” the PMO said in a statement.

Last month, the tricolour flying atop the Indian High Commission in London was grabbed at by a group of protesters waving separatist Khalistani flags and chanting pro-Khalistani slogans, leading to an arrest related to the violent disorder.

“PM also raised the issue of economic offenders who have sought refuge in the UK. He sought progress on the return of these fugitives so that they can appear before the Indian judicial system,” it added.

India has been pressing the UK to extradite Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi to face trial in India for their alleged involvement in cases relating to financial fraud.

The Prime Minister also invited Sunak to the G20 Summit to be held in September 2023. PM Sunak reiterated the UK’s full support to India’s initiatives.


Courtesy/Source: TOI / PTI