In a significant recognition of his contributions to fostering economic ties between India and the UK, Sunil Bharti Mittal, the founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has been conferred an honorary Knighthood by Britain’s King Charles III. The prestigious award acknowledges Mittal’s dedication to enhancing business relations between the two nations.
In an exclusive interview with ET Now, Mittal reflected on the honor and discussed the future of telecom in India, particularly emphasizing the need for rationalizing tariffs in the wake of substantial investments in 5G spectrum and rollout.
Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Mittal underscored the importance of the award in strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and the UK. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to deepen economic cooperation and the potential for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries, indicating a promising trajectory for future collaboration.
Mittal noted the remarkable growth of the Indian economy, now standing at nearly $4 trillion, equivalent to the UK’s economy. He emphasized India’s trajectory to become one of the world’s largest markets, surpassing major economies like the UK and Germany, and highlighted the synergies between India’s open investment environment and the UK’s expertise and resources.
The honorary Knighthood bestowed upon Mittal symbolizes the evolving dynamics of India-UK relations and underscores the significance of economic cooperation in shaping the global landscape. As India continues on its path to economic prominence, collaborations with strategic partners like the UK are poised to play a pivotal role in driving mutual growth and prosperity.
The award serves as a testament to Mittal’s vision and leadership in fostering cross-border partnerships and underscores the shared commitment to advancing bilateral ties between India and the UK. As both nations embark on a journey of economic transformation, the honorary Knighthood marks a milestone in the enduring friendship and strategic collaboration between India and the UK, setting the stage for future achievements and milestones.
