PM Modi in UK – Boosting India-UK Ties with Historic FTA Talks
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London on July 23 for a landmark two-day official visit aimed at enhancing India-UK ties across sectors. The visit, which marks the first leg of his two-nation tour, is centered around finalising the long-negotiated India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The FTA, under discussion for over three years, is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and reduce duties on 90% of British goods, such as whisky and automobiles. The deal is projected to double bilateral trade—currently at USD 60 billion—by 2030.
During the visit, PM Modi is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers, the UK PM’s official residence. Both leaders will review cooperation in areas like defence, innovation, education, and climate change. Modi is also expected to raise key concerns including Khalistani extremism in the UK and the extradition of fugitives.
The visit also includes a royal meeting with His Majesty King Charles III. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the trip builds on frequent high-level engagement between the two countries and signals a shared commitment to a stronger Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2021.
British and Indian communities alike have expressed optimism over the visit. Diaspora groups in the UK have prepared a warm welcome for PM Modi, hailing the event as historic. The Indian High Commissioner to the UK confirmed that “scrubbing work” on the FTA is underway, with the deal expected to be signed during Modi’s stay.
Following the UK leg, PM Modi will travel to the Maldives to attend the island nation’s Independence Day on July 26, further strengthening regional ties. His visit is seen as a bold step to expand India’s global influence while reinforcing age-old partnerships with key allies.
