New Delhi/London, July 24
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London on Wednesday evening for his two-day visit to the United Kingdom (UK), and said that a "strong friendship between the two countries is essential for global progress".
"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," PM Modi said on social media platform X.
"Scripting a new beginning in the India-Great Britain Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. PM @narendramodi lands in London, on an official visit to the UK. Bilateral talks with PM @Keir_Starmer & meeting with His Majesty King Charles III @RoyalFamily lie ahead," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said on X.
The Prime Minister's visit to the UK, scheduled for July 23–24, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country.
"Leaving for the 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," PM Modi said on X as he emplaned for the UK.
"During the visit, the two sides will also review the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people-to-people ties," the Ministry of External Affairs said in its press statement.
The discussions will also touch upon regional and global developments of mutual concern.
The visit is expected to inject new momentum into the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with both leaders aiming to review progress and chart new areas of cooperation, including India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
PM Modi is also likely to call on King Charles III during his stay.
Under negotiation for three years, the FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99 per cent of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90 per cent of British goods.
It is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030 from the current $60 billion and boost British exports such as whisky and cars to India.
PM Modi is likely to raise concerns about Khalistani extremists in the UK.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, "The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists, bodies close to these people, is something that we have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK."
The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit builds on frequent high-level engagement between the two countries. PM Modi and his UK counterpart Starmer have already met twice -- in Brazil during the G20 Summit and again at the G7 in June 2025 -- and held multiple phone conversations.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While economic ties are important, I hope PM Modi raises the issue of visa restrictions for Indian students. Many bright minds face unnecessary hurdles. Also, the UK must stop sheltering anti-India elements if they truly value this partnership.
Scotch whisky tariffs reduced means cheaper drinks! 🥃 But seriously, doubling trade to $120 billion by 2030 is massive. Our IT sector will benefit hugely from closer UK ties. Good timing with their new govt too.
As an NRI in London, I'm thrilled to see this engagement. The Indian diaspora can be the bridge between both nations. Hope they discuss easier OCI card rules and property ownership norms for Indians abroad.
The defense cooperation angle is being under-reported. With UK joining Indo-Pacific initiatives, we could see joint naval exercises and tech transfers. This is crucial with China's growing aggression in our waters.
While celebrating this visit, let's not forget historical baggage. UK should return our Kohinoor diamond and other artifacts looted during colonial rule. True friendship means addressing past injustices too.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.