PM Modi departs for London; all eyes on talks with British PM Starmer, King Charles

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday embarked on a high-stakes diplomatic visit to the United Kingdom from July 23-24, with the signing of the long-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) topping the agenda. 

The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties across strategic sectors and could mark a major milestone in India’s global trade positioning.

India and the UK, bound by a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, have seen remarkable growth in areas such as trade, technology, defence, education, and climate cooperation. The upcoming FTA is expected to further deepen this relationship, potentially doubling the current bilateral trade volume of $60 billion by 2030.

Also Read:India-UK FTA: 15 key things to know about landmark trade pact set to be inked during PM Modi’s visit

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. @Keir_Starmer @RoyalFamily…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 23, 2025

Tariff Cuts, Whisky, and Cars: What the FTA means

Under the terms of the FTA, India is likely to eliminate tariffs on 99 per cent of its exports to the UK. In return, tariffs on 90 per cent of British goods, including whisky and automobiles, could be significantly reduced. The deal, in the making for three years, is seen as a win-win for both economies.

In his departure statement, PM Modi said, “During my meeting with Prime Minister Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer, we will have the opportunity to further enhance our economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth and job creation in both countries.”

 He also expressed eagerness to call on King Charles III during the visit.

Also Read:MEA to conduct special media briefing ahead of Prime Minister’s visit to UK & Maldives from July 23-26 

Talks on security, extremism, and gobal issues

Besides economic matters, PM Modi is expected to raise the issue of Khalistani extremism with the UK government. India has voiced concerns over such groups operating out of British soil. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that the matter has been consistently flagged and that India expects concrete action.

The leaders will also discuss climate change, health, education, and global security issues. With a 2.7 per cent Indian-origin population in the UK, the Indian diaspora continues to serve as a vital cultural and economic bridge between the two nations.

Maldives Next: Strengthening Indian ocean partnerships

Following the UK leg, PM Modi will travel to the Maldives on July 25-26 to attend the island nation’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. He is scheduled to meet President Mohamed Muizzu and other top leaders to advance a joint vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.

“This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries,” he said. The visit aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First policy and is expected to enhance cooperation for peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.