India-UK CETA Boosts Trade, Eyes Ambitious Vision 2035: Keir Starmer

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer underscored the growing importance of the bilateral partnership, describing it as perfectly aligned with the ambitious India-UK Vision 2035 roadmap.

Speaking after his meeting with PM Narendra Modi at Raj Bhavan, PM Starmer highlighted the potential of the partnership to elevate trade, investment, and technological cooperation over the next decade.

He noted, “We signed a major trade deal with India in July—the best secured by any country—but the story doesn’t stop there. It’s not just a piece of paper; it’s a launchpad for growth. Today, we are turbocharging trade and investment flows, with opportunities in AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, critical minerals, and more.”

Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)

UK Prime Minister Starmer highlighted that CETA will transform the partnership by increasing bilateral trade by £25.5 billion annually, raising UK GDP by £4.8 billion, and creating thousands of jobs.

He specifically cited the Scotch whisky sector, which could see exports to India reach £1 billion annually.

“The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement is really important,” he said, stressing that mutual trust in democracy, freedom, and the rule of law forms the foundation of the India-UK relationship.

Beyond trade, the two leaders discussed defence collaboration and fintech partnerships.

PM Starmer and PM Modi later attended the Global Fintech Fest 2025, highlighting initiatives to enhance technology exchange and sustainable investment flows between the two nations.

PM Starmer also welcomed the recent Gaza peace deal and reiterated his support for reforming the United Nations Security Council to include India as a permanent member, calling for a more representative and effective global body.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal noted that his discussions with PM Starmer further strengthened trade and economic collaboration.

UK Prime Minister Starmer’s visit, accompanied by the largest-ever UK trade delegation to India, demonstrated the shared commitment to mutual prosperity.

Goyal highlighted ongoing efforts to operationalise CETA and double bilateral trade by 2030.

The India-UK Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) will oversee the implementation and delivery of the agreement, providing a structured framework for future cooperation.

A Strong Foundation for Vision 2035

The India-UK partnership, driven by talent, technology, and trust, is poised to become a central pillar of global economic growth and stability.

Both leaders affirmed that the collaboration under Vision 2035 will not only enhance trade and investment but also strengthen diplomatic, technological, and defence ties, laying the groundwork for a resilient and mutually prosperous future.

Also Read: PM Modi Calls India–UK Partnership A Pillar Of Global Stability