PM Modi’s UK Visit Focuses On FTA, Innovation & Security

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in London on Wednesday evening, marking the start of his two-day official visit to the United Kingdom.

Upon arrival, PM Modi stated that ‘a strong India-UK friendship is essential for global progress’, underlining the importance of deeper bilateral cooperation in today’s rapidly changing world.

The visit, taking place on 23–24 July at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is PM Modi’s fourth trip to the UK.

The two leaders will hold extensive discussions to review and advance the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on economic growth, job creation, and mutual prosperity.

Ahead of his visit, PM Modi shared on social media platform X, “Landed in London. This visit will go a long way in advancing the economic partnership between our nations. The focus will be on furthering prosperity, growth and boosting job creation for our people. A strong India-UK friendship is essential for global progress.”

As part of the official programme, PM Modi will meet His Majesty King Charles III and hold bilateral talks with PM Keir Starmer.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the leaders will review progress under the CSP and focus on key sectors including trade, technology, defence, climate action, health, education, and people-to-people connections.

Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in Spotlight

Central to the discussions is the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, under negotiation for the past three years.

Once finalised, the FTA is expected to remove tariffs on 99% of Indian exports and reduce tariffs on 90% of British goods.

The agreement could double current bilateral trade — now valued at $60 billion — by 2030, while also boosting UK exports like whisky and automobiles to India.

PM Modi is also expected to raise concerns about Khalistani extremists’ activities in the UK.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said India has consistently alerted UK authorities about the issue, which will feature in the talks.

The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that this visit builds on regular high-level engagement between the two nations.

PM Modi and Starmer have previously met at the G20 Summit in Brazil and at the G7 in June 2025, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening ties across diverse sectors.

Both nations aim to shape a more resilient, cooperative, and forward-looking global partnership, and PM Modi’s visit to the UK will advance strategic collaboration in a fast-evolving world order.

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