PM Modi has started his two-day visit to the United Kingdom on Wednesday; the visit aims to expand bilateral ties in technology, defence, and trade. It is expected that the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could be a major outcome.
Upon arrival, Modi was welcomed by the Indian diaspora in the UK. He wrote on X, “Touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in the UK. Their affection and passion towards India’s progress is truly heartening.”
Later this afternoon, he is scheduled to meet his British counterpart Keir Starmer. This meeting is set to take place at Chequers, the official country residence of the UK Prime Minister, located 50 kilometres northwest of London.
According to sources, India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and British Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds will sign the FTA in the presence of the Prime Ministers of both countries.
Free Trade Agreement
Earlier in May, the United Kingdom and India signed a Free Trade Agreement that is expected to benefit exports for both nations. British firms will gain from increased exports of cars, whisky, and other goods in the trade basket.
This agreement had been under negotiation for three years. Following its implementation, India will gain tariff elimination on 99 percent of tariff lines. In 2023–24, India-UK bilateral trade crossed USD 55 billion, making the UK the sixth-largest investor in India.
This trip of PM Modi comes amidst the Monsoon Session of Parliament, which began on July 21.
The visit to the UK is at the invitation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Ministry of External Affairs said earlier this week. Following this meeting, Modi is also scheduled to meet King Charles III.
After the UK visit, Modi will fly to the Maldives to meet President Mohamed Muizzu—seen as a breakthrough in ties between the two countries.
Full Itinerary of PM Modi’s Visit
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2:30 PM to 5:30 PM: Meeting with UK PM Keir Starmer
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6:30 PM: Press meet with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri
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9:00 PM: Meeting with King Charles III