Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Mumbai as the British leader commenced his first official visit to India. The two leaders exchanged pleasantries and held high-level discussions focused on trade, defence cooperation, education, and regional stability.
Addressing the CEO Forum in Mumbai, the UK PM described the past two days of discussions between Indian and British business leaders as “incredibly productive,” highlighting the enthusiasm and exchange of ideas.
“It is an important moment as we stand here, reflecting our shared commitment to a special relationship. We are building something together, creating a new modern partnership focused on a future we are shaping jointly,” said Starmer.
“The UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, signed in July, was a breakthrough moment after years of negotiations. It slashes tariffs, increases access to each other’s markets, drives growth, creates jobs, and improves life for people in both nations,” he added.
Starmer hailed the talks as the start of a “new modern partnership focusing on the future” and emphasised the significance of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), calling it “the biggest deal we’ve struck since leaving the European Union” and “the largest India has ever signed.” The FTA is expected to boost bilateral trade by £25.5 billion annually.
He described the Mumbai forum as a continuation of the dialogue that began at Chequers, celebrating the UK-India partnership and the strong potential in economic collaboration. Business leaders from both countries actively networked and shared ideas, reflecting growing momentum in bilateral relations.
During a joint India-UK press briefing, Starmer condoled the Air India plane crash that claimed 274 lives. He also said he discussed the situation in West Asia with PM Modi and welcomed India’s early steps towards a peace plan in Gaza. The two leaders spoke on the need for lasting peace in Ukraine and the importance of stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.
Cultural ties were also highlighted, with Starmer announcing that three major productions from Yash Raj Films will be shot in the UK from 2026. He participated in Diwali celebrations by lighting diyas in Mumbai and met football fans, praising the Premier League’s role in promoting football in India.
PM Modi, addressing a joint press conference, said the India-UK partnership is driven by “trustworthiness, talent, and technology,” combining India’s dynamism with the UK’s expertise. He highlighted the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in London in July, calling it “historic,” and said it will lower import costs, generate employment for youth, increase trade, and benefit industries and consumers.
The Prime Minister noted that the visit and engagement with the UK delegation symbolize “new energy” in India-UK collaboration. He added that the business summits, India-UK CEO Forum, and Global Fintech Festival will generate multiple proposals to further strengthen bilateral cooperation.
On strategic issues, Modi said discussions covered peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia, as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He affirmed India’s support for all diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving peace in these regions.
Significant announcements included the opening of nine UK university campuses in India, with Southampton University already operational in Gurugram. Both leaders underlined the natural partnership between India and the UK, rooted in shared democratic values, and its importance for global stability and economic progress.
The two countries also agreed on military training cooperation, with Indian Air Force instructors set to serve as trainers in the UK’s Royal Air Force. Additionally, an Industry Guild and Supply Chain Observatory will be established to collaborate on critical minerals, with a satellite campus at the Indian School of Mines in Dhanbad.
The Prime Ministers signed agreements furthering the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and a £350 million contract for the UK to supply missiles to India.
