Boris Johnson Praises Modi as ‘Change-Maker’

In Shorts:

• Former British PM Boris Johnson praises PM Modi as a ‘change-maker’ in his book ‘Unleashed’.
• Johnson mentions feeling a ‘curious astral energy’ during his first meeting with Modi.
• He also highlights his role in setting the course for an India-UK free-trade deal.

Detailed News:

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his new book ‘Unleashed’, calling him a ‘change-maker’. Johnson shared that during their first meeting, he felt a ‘curious astral energy’ and believes that Modi is the right partner to strengthen India-UK relations, including a potential free-trade deal.

In his memoir, Johnson dedicates an entire chapter, ‘Britain and India,’ to the ties between the two countries. He credits himself with laying the groundwork for a “proper free-trade deal” with India by finding “the perfect partner” in PM Modi.

Recalling their first meeting by the River Thames when he was the Mayor of London, Johnson wrote, “Modi raised my arm and chanted something in Hindi, and while I didn’t understand it, I felt his curious astral energy.”

Johnson also revealed that back in 2012, the UK Foreign Office advised him against meeting Modi. However, he now believes that Modi’s leadership is what the India-UK relationship needs to grow.

Johnson described his 2022 visit to India as a “tremendous success,” calling it a “boost to morale” amidst domestic political challenges. He also shared his perspective on India-Russia relations, highlighting the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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