Narendra Modi meets UK’s new PM Theresa May

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met new Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May, for the first time and held discussions on enhancing bilateral ties in the aftermath of the UK’s decision to exit the European Union.

Both the leaders held discussions on the sidelines of the G20 summit in China on “building opportunities” after the UK voted to leave the EU- the world’s single largest market.

“Building opportunities with the United Kingdom. PM @narendramodi meets PM @theresa_may for their first bilateral,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted.

Theresa May was sworn in as Britain’s Prime Minister on July 13, succeeding David Cameron who resigned after the country voted in favour of exiting the EU. May, 59, is UK’s second woman Prime Minister after Margaret Thatcher, also known as Iron Lady, with whom May is often compared.

Modi had congratulated May on her assumption of new responsibility on July 27 and had affirmed India’s commitment to further strengthen the strategic bilateral partnership. Thanking Prime Minister Modi in a telephonic conversation, May had  said she looked forward to work closely with India to develop stronger ties and enhance cooperation.

PM Modi earlier Monday said fighting corruption, blackmoney and tax-evasion were central to effective financial governance. He also said, “we need to act to eliminiate safe havens for economic offenders, track down and unconditionally extradite money launderers.”