MODI CALLS MAY, 'STRONGER AND CLOSER' TIES DISCUSSED

Indian Prime Minister called on Theresa May to congratulate her for becoming UK Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to Britain's new Prime Minister Theresa May congratulating her on her assumption of office and discussed with her "stronger and closer" bilateral ties, including in trade and defence. During the telephonic conversation on Tuesday (July 26) Modi also appreciated the UK's consistent support to India in various global fora, the 

MEA spokesperson said on Wednesday. Thanking Prime Minister Modi, May said she looked forward to working closely with him for developing stronger bilateral ties and enhancing 

cooperation in tackling pressing global challenges. Modi also recalled his memorable visit to the UK last November. Downing Street said that trade and investment formed the central feature of the discussions between the two leaders during their conversation.

"Trade and investment featured strongly in the conversation with Prime Minister Modi who expressed his hope that the relationship would become even stronger and closer in the future, particularly given the shared values and common interest," a Downing Street statement said.

May took over after the resignation of David Cameron following the UK’s vote to leave the European Union (EU) in a referendum on June 23. She sought to highlight London and the UK’s continued importance within the India-UK relationship during her first official conversation with Modi.

"The Prime Minister [May] pointed out that the launch next month of the first rupee-denominated bond in London is a concrete example of our close and growing economic cooperation and underlines that the city remains a global hub for innovative finance," Downing Street said.

"The Prime Minister also emphasised the UK’s continued commitment to our defence and security partnership and support for India's increasing role in international fora. Finally, both welcomed the valuable contribution of the Indian diaspora to the UK," the statement added.

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THREE KILLED IN SHOOTING IN EASTERN UK

Three people were killed on Tuesday (July 19) in a shooting in Spalding of  eastern England, including the suspected assailant, but police said there was no indication of a link with terrorism. Lincolnshire police said they were not looking for anyone else following the 'firearms incident' near a swimming pool and sports complex in the town of Spalding.  

'Three people have been fatally wounded, including the suspected offender,' the police force said in a statement. 'There is an ongoing police investigation and at this stage we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.'  

'There is no indication that this is a terrorist-related incident and no shots have been fired by police.'  A spokeswoman for the local ambulance service said paramedics had treated three patients for gunshot wounds but they were pronounced dead at the scene. Police urged members of the public to stay away from the area, and local councillor Gary Taylor said the incident had left the community reeling. 'It's terrible news and local people are very shocked,' he told a news agency. 'It's a very quiet place. Gun crime does not exist in this area at all. It's shocking news.' In a short statement on its Facebook page, the Castle Sports Complex and Swimming Pool said it was closed 'due to an incident in the local area'.