PM Modi Invites UK PM Keir Starmer to India After Historic Trade Deal Signing
In a major diplomatic and economic breakthrough, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on a state visit to India, shortly after the two nations signed the much-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement. Describing it as “historic,” PM Modi highlighted that this deal is not just an economic pact but a shared vision for growth, prosperity, and stronger bilateral relations.
During a joint press conference in London, PM Modi expressed his gratitude to PM Starmer for the warm hospitality and affirmed that the India-UK Free Trade Agreement marks a new era in cooperation between the two democracies. “This agreement is not merely an economic agreement, but it is a plan for shared growth and prosperity,” said Modi.
What Makes the Trade Deal “Historic”?
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement, also known as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), has been in the pipeline for several years. It aims to double bilateral trade between India and the UK to \$120 billion by 2030. For India, this is one of the most comprehensive trade deals with a developed economy in over a decade.
The deal offers massive benefits across sectors like textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, seafood, engineering goods, and more. Indian agriculture and processed food industries are also expected to gain fresh opportunities in the UK market. On the other hand, British products like whisky and cars will now find it easier to enter the Indian market.
Modi emphasized the India-UK Free Trade Agreement as a global game-changer, saying, “As two of the world’s largest economies and vibrant democracies, India and the UK are setting a new benchmark in trade cooperation. This agreement will bring stability to the global economy and encourage innovation and mutual growth.”
Strong Words on Security and Terrorism
Beyond economics, the discussions between the two leaders also touched upon global security and the need to fight terrorism without compromise. PM Modi thanked the UK for condemning the recent Pahalgam terror attack and underlined the importance of international unity against extremist ideologies.
“There is no place for double standards in the fight against terrorism,” Modi said firmly. He added that security agencies from both countries will continue to work closely on matters such as the extradition of economic offenders.
Starmer’s Take: Biggest Post-Brexit Trade Deal
PM Keir Starmer, who took office recently, called the India-UK Free Trade Agreement the biggest and most economically significant trade deal for the UK since its exit from the European Union. He welcomed the opportunity to deepen ties with India and termed the partnership as a model for international cooperation in the 21st century.
Royal Meeting & Next Stop: Maldives
PM Modi’s two-day visit to the UK included high-level talks with Starmer and a scheduled meeting with King Charles III. From London, the Prime Minister is set to visit the Maldives at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. This visit is being seen as a major step in resetting ties between India and the Maldives after recent diplomatic tensions.
Final Thoughts
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement is more than just a trade pact—it’s a symbol of trust, cooperation, and shared future between two influential democracies. With doors now open for wider market access, reduced tariffs, and strategic alignment, this deal is poised to be a cornerstone in global trade narratives over the next decade.
Stay tuned for more updates on international relations, trade, and diplomacy.