Strong India-UK Friendship: A New Chapter Begins with PM Modi’s Visit

London, July 24 – In a powerful step toward deepening global ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in London for a two-day official visit to the United Kingdom, emphasizing that a strong bond between India and the UK is not just beneficial—but necessary—for shared global progress.

The Prime Minister, who is visiting at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressed his vision clearly upon arrival: “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,” he wrote on social media platform X.

His visit comes at a crucial time when both nations are aligning efforts on trade, technology, climate action, and people-to-people connections. The Ministry of External Affairs echoed this forward-looking spirit, stating, “Scripting a new beginning in the India-Great Britain Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”

This marks Modi’s fourth visit to the UK, underscoring the growing momentum of diplomatic and strategic collaboration between the two countries. As he departed for London, the PM noted, “Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years.”

During the visit, Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with PM Starmer and meet with His Majesty King Charles III, reflecting the warm ties and respect between the two nations.

The discussions are expected to focus heavily on key sectors: economy, defence, technology, education, healthcare, and the climate crisis. Notably, the long-negotiated India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is also on the table. If finalized, the FTA could eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90% of British goods entering India. Projections suggest that this could double the bilateral trade volume—currently valued at $60 billion—by 2030.

Additionally, PM Modi is expected to raise sensitive issues, including the presence and activities of Khalistani extremists in the UK—a matter India considers of national and international concern. “We have brought this to the attention of our partners in the UK,” confirmed Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

The visit also builds on recent high-level meetings between the two leaders. Modi and Starmer have already engaged on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil and the G7 Summit in June 2025, reaffirming their commitment to this strategic partnership.

This visit isn’t just about handshakes and headlines—it’s about shared values, mutual respect, and the promise of what two global democracies can achieve when they walk forward together.