PM Modi Lands In London To Bolster India-UK Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London on Wednesday evening, commencing his two-day visit to the United Kingdom, which marks a significant diplomatic step towards strengthening Indo-British relations.

The visit, taking place at the invitation of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is PM Modi’s fourth official trip to Britain.

Speaking on social media platform X before departure, PM Modi said, “Leaving for UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III.”

During the visit, both countries will actively review progress under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on trade, defence, climate action, innovation, healthcare, education, and people-to-people ties.

Central to the talks is the long-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which has been under negotiation for the past three years.

Once finalised, the agreement will remove tariffs on 99 per cent of Indian exports and reduce tariffs on 90 per cent of British goods, potentially doubling bilateral trade from the current $60 billion by 2030.

The FTA could open significant opportunities for British exports such as whisky and automobiles while granting India greater access to UK markets, especially in services and textiles.

Meeting with King Charles III

PM Modi is also expected to call on King Charles III during his London stay.

The meeting underlines the importance of high-level diplomatic engagement between the two nations, reinforcing historical and cultural ties.

The Prime Minister is likely to raise concerns regarding the presence of Khalistani extremist groups in the UK.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said India has consistently raised the issue with British authorities, and it will feature in the discussions.

Additionally, the two leaders will deliberate on regional and global issues of mutual interest, underscoring the strategic dimension of the visit.

This visit builds on the momentum of recent high-level interactions between India and the UK, including meetings between PM Modi and PM Starmer at the G20 Summit in Brazil.

It reflects a shared commitment to deepening cooperation across multiple domains, while addressing sensitive issues and promoting a balanced, forward-looking partnership.

Also Read: PM Modi’s UK Visit To Focus On Trade, Investment, & Strategic Ties