Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks today on his fourth official visit to the United Kingdom, marking a pivotal moment in Indo-British relations. Over the two-day diplomatic mission from July 23 to 24, 2025, the visit aims to finalize the long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA), solidify strategic ties, and address pressing global and regional challenges, including concerns over Khalistani extremism.
This visit not only signifies the robust nature of the bilateral relationship but also underscores India’s growing influence on the global stage. Prime Minister Modi’s engagements with King Charles III and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will serve as key highlights of this high-stakes diplomatic journey.
Historic Signing of India-UK Free Trade Agreement on July 24
One of the most significant milestones of this visit is the formal signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK on July 24, 2025. Accompanying the Prime Minister will be Union Minister Piyush Goyal, signaling the importance New Delhi places on this comprehensive trade pact.
The agreement is designed to eliminate tariffs on a wide array of Indian exports, including leather, textiles, shoes, and ready-made garments, sectors that form the backbone of India’s labor-intensive industries. In return, the UK will see reduced import duties on premium products such as whiskey, automobiles, and high-end machinery, aiming to boost two-way trade to $120 billion by 2030.
This breakthrough comes after years of negotiations and is poised to become one of the most impactful trade agreements in India’s recent history.
Strengthening Bilateral Investments and Economic Synergy
The United Kingdom ranks as India’s sixth-largest investor, having injected over $36 billion in FDI into sectors such as technology, education, infrastructure, and health. Conversely, India holds a strong investment footprint in the UK, with $20 billion in Indian-origin FDI, emphasizing mutual economic reliance.
During the visit, business leaders from both nations are expected to engage in high-level discussions to explore joint ventures in green energy, fintech, pharmaceuticals, and defense innovation. This reflects a deepening of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership initiated in recent years.
Strategic Discussions with King Charles III and PM Keir Starmer
Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with King Charles III is expected to focus on climate action, sustainability, and cultural diplomacy. With both countries committed to net-zero emission goals, India and the UK are exploring green partnerships through joint investments and knowledge sharing.
Meanwhile, the bilateral summit with Prime Minister Keir Starmer will cover an expansive strategic agenda. Topics of discussion include:
Counter-terrorism collaboration, especially regarding Khalistani separatist activities in the UK.
Intelligence sharing and extradition protocols, with emphasis on fugitives such as Tahawwur Rana.
Joint research in AI, space exploration, and emerging technologies.
Climate finance and renewable energy goals under the Global Green Growth Agenda.
Health security, including vaccine cooperation and digital healthcare initiatives.
Addressing the Khalistani Threat and Extradition Issues
A significant topic that will be addressed behind closed doors is the growing presence of Khalistani extremists in the UK. India has repeatedly raised concerns about the rising radical activities within UK borders that could strain diplomatic relations and pose national security threats.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that both sides will engage in in-depth talks on the extradition of fugitives and enhanced counter-terrorism cooperation. While the names of high-profile fugitives have not been officially disclosed, it is expected that India will press for faster legal processes to bring back those facing trial in Indian courts.
Progress on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
This visit also aims to review the status of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, originally launched in 2021. The agreement laid the groundwork for cooperation in 10 core sectors, including:
Defense and security
Trade and investment
Science and innovation
People-to-people ties
Climate change and clean energy
Migration and mobility
Health and pharmaceuticals
Digital technologies
Education and skill development
Culture and heritage
With today’s visit, both countries are expected to fast-track implementation of various deliverables, including student mobility programs, tech start-up funding, and joint military exercises.
Modi-Starmer Diplomatic Engagements: A Strong Continuum
This marks the third major interaction between PM Modi and PM Keir Starmer in less than a year. They previously met during the G20 Summit in Brazil (November 2024) and the G7 Summit in June 2025, with multiple telephonic exchanges solidifying their growing rapport.
The continuity in dialogue between the two leaders has created a conducive environment for bold diplomatic breakthroughs, including the current FTA and ongoing discussions on global conflict resolution, Middle East peace processes, and climate financing frameworks.
PM Modi’s Scheduled Visit to the Maldives: July 25–26
Following his UK visit, Prime Minister Modi will travel to the Maldives from July 25 to 26, marking his third visit to the island nation. The visit comes at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who recently assumed office.
Notably, this will be the first state visit by a foreign leader under the new administration, symbolizing India’s long-standing friendship and strategic alignment with the Maldives. High on the agenda will be:
Maritime security collaboration in the Indian Ocean Region.
Infrastructure development assistance, including new port projects and housing initiatives.
Cultural exchanges and people-to-people diplomacy.
Joint climate resilience programs, focusing on coastal preservation and rising sea level challenges.
India has consistently maintained its role as a reliable development partner to the Maldives, and this visit is expected to further cement New Delhi’s leadership in South Asia.
Conclusion: A Defining Diplomatic Chapter for 2025
Prime Minister Modi’s fourth UK visit and subsequent trip to the Maldives collectively mark a strategic elevation of India’s global diplomacy in 2025. The finalization of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, active discussions on security and counter-terrorism, and deepening ties across business and culture point to a resilient and future-facing partnership.
In a world marked by geopolitical uncertainty and shifting alliances, India’s assertive global engagements underscore its role as a responsible, proactive, and forward-looking power. As we monitor the outcomes of this landmark visit, it is clear that India’s voice continues to grow louder on the world stage — with diplomacy that is decisive, bold, and visionary.
