Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today embarked on a four-day official visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives, with a packed agenda focused on finalising a landmark India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) and deepening defence cooperation.
The UK leg of the visit, scheduled for July 23–24, comes at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Modi will also meet King Charles III and attend a bilateral summit at Chequers, the British PM’s official country residence. Commerce ministers from both sides are expected to formally sign the long-awaited FTA in the presence of both leaders.
The trade deal, three years in the making, is set to eliminate tariffs on nearly 99% of product lines and provide greater market access for Indian exporters. It is also expected to benefit British industries such as automobiles and spirits. In parallel, a social security agreement will allow Indian workers in the UK to avoid double contributions.
This will be Modi’s fourth UK visit since taking office in 2014 and comes amid the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Following the UK stopover, the Prime Minister will travel to the Maldives to attend the island nation’s Independence Day celebrations on July 26 as Guest of Honour, at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the trip, though brief, offers an opportunity to review the entire spectrum of bilateral ties and hold strategic discussions on regional and global issues.