Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak talked about deepening the India-UK security, defence and economic partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Britain's new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Thursday and congratulated him on assuming office. During the conversation, PM Modi and his British counterpart discussed the need to conclude a "comprehensive and balanced free-trade deal" between India and the UK soon.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Modi said, "Glad to speak to @RishiSunak today. Congratulated him on assuming charge as UK PM. We will work together to further strengthen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. We also agreed on the importance of early conclusion of a comprehensive and balanced FTA."

The UK Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Modi for his "kind words".

"Thank you Prime Minister @NarendraModi for your kind words as I get started in my new role.

The UK and India share so much. I'm excited about what our two great democracies can achieve as we deepen our security, defence and economic partnership in the months & years ahead," he tweeted in response.

Prime Minister Modi had earlier congratulated Sunak after he emerged victorious in the Conservatives Party leadership race on Monday.

“Warmest congratulations @RishiSunak! As you become UK PM, I look forward to working closely together on global issues, and implementing Roadmap 2030. Special Diwali wishes to the 'living bridge' of UK Indians, as we transform our historic ties into a modern partnership," he had said on Twitter.

Sunak, the first Hindu Prime Minister of the UK, was chosen for the position on the auspicious date of Diwali, a major Hindu festival that symbolises the triumph of virtue over evil.

Southampton-born Rishi Sunak, who is also the son-in-law of Indian billionaire N R Narayana Murthy, staged an astonishing political comeback in British politics just seven weeks after losing the previous Tory (Conservatives) leadership race.

Former UK Chancellor Sunak, who won after Penny Mordaunt withdrew from the race, became the first Indian-origin prime minister of the UK, succeeding outgoing PM Liz Truss.