PM Modi Begins Visit to UK and Maldives Promises Stronger Bonds and Shared Progress
New Delhi, July 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set off on a meaningful four-day journey to the United Kingdom and the Maldives, carrying with him not just a diplomatic agenda, but the hopes of deepening ties and building future-ready partnerships with two of India’s long-standing allies.
Before boarding his flight, PM Modi spoke with optimism and intent, expressing his eagerness to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UK—a relationship that has blossomed in recent years through shared values, innovation, and mutual respect.
“I look forward to engaging with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to take our economic cooperation to greater heights,” PM Modi said, emphasizing areas like trade, technology, defence, education, and job creation. “Our discussions aim to create lasting prosperity for the people of both nations.”
One of the symbolic highlights of the visit will be a meeting with King Charles III, reflecting the historic and evolving relationship between India and the UK. Since the 2021 upgrade to a strategic partnership, both nations have engaged frequently—most recently at the G7 Summit in June 2025—marking a visible shift in collaboration and trust.
Trade between India and the UK has already touched a remarkable $55 billion in 2024, with the signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement earlier this May considered a landmark development. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have exchanged visits, paving the way for stronger policy alignments.
In the realm of technology, a promising initiative called the Technology Security Initiative (TSI) has opened new doors in cutting-edge sectors like AI, biotech, semiconductors, and quantum tech. Educational bridges are also being built, with Southampton University opening a new campus in Gurugram, the first under India’s New Education Policy.
After the UK leg, PM Modi will fly to the Maldives on July 25, joining the people of the island nation as they celebrate 60 years of independence. His visit comes at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, with whom he will discuss advancing a shared vision of economic cooperation and maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
“This year marks not just the Maldives’ independence but also 60 years of our diplomatic ties,” PM Modi shared. “Together, we’ll strengthen our neighbourhood-first commitment, focus on peace, stability, and shared prosperity.”
This journey is more than protocol—it is a reflection of India’s global aspirations rooted in friendship, trust, and a vision for a better tomorrow.