NEW DELHI (AP) — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, focusing on enhancing cooperation in trade, defense, and technology, while also promoting a significant trade deal between the two nations. The discussions took place in India’s financial capital, Mumbai, marking Starmer's first official trip to India since he took office in July 2024. His visit, which began on Wednesday and lasts for two days, aligns with the Indian government’s initiatives to attract global investment in its rapidly growing economy.
During the meeting, Modi and Starmer emphasized the importance of advancing a trade agreement signed during Modi's visit to London in July. They discussed enhancing collaboration in sectors such as digital infrastructure, technology, defense, critical minerals, and education. Additionally, the two countries finalized a defense deal, allowing the United Kingdom to supply missiles, launchers, and electric-powered engines for naval ships to India, according to the British defense ministry.
Modi labeled the countries as “natural partners,” highlighting that strengthening their partnership serves as an example of stability in an unpredictable world. He stated, “The India-U.K. partnership is becoming a crucial foundation for global stability and economic progress.” Furthermore, he announced that an agreement on military training cooperation had been reached, and disclosed that nine British universities have plans to establish campuses in India.
Starmer's delegation, consisting of 125 members from business, academia, and cultural sectors, is central to his visit. He articulated that the primary objective of the trip is to “double down on the potential of the trade deal,” which is anticipated to stimulate growth and employment opportunities in both countries. “We are creating a new, modern partnership focusing on the future,” Starmer added.
The anticipated trade agreement, which both nations aim to implement within the coming year, is expected to reduce tariffs on various products, including Scotch whisky and English gin exported to India, as well as Indian food and spices sent to the U.K. The British government projected the deal would bolster bilateral trade by an additional $34 billion and elevate exports to India by nearly 60%.
In addition to trade discussions, Modi and Starmer exchanged views on the stability of the Indo-Pacific region and addressed contemporary issues such as the war in Ukraine and developments in Gaza. Starmer praised the initial stages of a peace plan between Israel and Hamas, describing it as providing “profound relief,” especially for hostages and families affected by the conflict over the past two years.
