In a milestone diplomatic development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing UK visit has culminated in the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and Britain. This high-level bilateral engagement marks the beginning of a new era in Indo-British relations, focused on economic growth, strategic collaboration, and global partnership.
The agreement was signed in the presence of PM Modi and his British counterpart Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and is poised to revolutionize trade dynamics between the two nations. From heritage crafts and handloom to tech startups and advanced manufacturing, the FTA promises inclusive benefits—particularly for women entrepreneurs and emerging Indian sectors.
PM Modi’s 4th Visit to the UK: Strategic and Symbolic
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London on a two-day official visit, making this his fourth visit to the United Kingdom since assuming office. The visit is packed with high-profile engagements, including a meeting with King Charles III, in-depth discussions with PM Keir Starmer, and a comprehensive review of the UK-India Vision 2035.
During this significant visit, both nations reiterated their commitment to bolstering the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on sectors such as:
Trade and investment
Innovation and technology
Climate action and energy security
Education and healthcare
Defense cooperation
People-to-people exchanges
India-UK Free Trade Agreement: A Game-Changer
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement, years in the making, was officially signed in London. This deal is being hailed as a historic economic breakthrough, with both countries expecting substantial gains in the export-import sector.
Key Highlights of the FTA:
Elimination or reduction of tariffs on a wide range of goods and services.
Greater market access for Indian textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products.
Enhanced collaboration in tech innovation, AI, and green energy.
Simplified processes for business visas and investment pathways.
Special emphasis on empowering women-led enterprises and rural entrepreneurs.
British PM Keir Starmer described the agreement as a “big victory” during PM Modi’s visit and underlined the £6 billion investment boost it brings, along with significant growth in UK exports.
PM Modi and Starmer at the London ‘Business Showcase’
A powerful moment in the visit unfolded at the ‘Business Showcase’ exhibition in London, where PM Modi and PM Starmer jointly inaugurated the event. The two leaders were seen shaking hands in front of the English Premier League trophy, symbolizing the blending of diplomacy and culture.
While addressing journalists, PM Modi remarked with a smile, “Don’t worry, we can use English words in between.” Starmer responded, “I think we understand each other very well,” reflecting the warm camaraderie between the two leaders.
This symbolic interaction underscored the ease of diplomatic dialogue and the shared democratic values both leaders emphasized throughout their public appearances.
UK-India Vision 2035: Blueprint for a Stronger Future
Another major outcome of this visit was the unveiling of the UK-India Vision 2035. This joint roadmap lays out long-term cooperation strategies to tackle global challenges and drive mutual progress in the coming decade.
Vision 2035 Key Focus Areas:
Green hydrogen and climate-resilient infrastructure
Cybersecurity and quantum computing
Healthcare innovation and digital health platforms
Defense manufacturing and joint military exercises
Academic and student mobility partnerships
Streamlining visa and immigration systems
With this forward-looking plan, both nations reaffirmed their strategic alignment and readiness to be co-drivers of global growth and stability.
PM Modi’s Message: “Strong India-UK Friendship Necessary for Global Progress”
Upon landing in London, PM Modi tweeted:
“I have reached London. This visit will prove to be very helpful in furthering the economic partnership between our countries. Our focus will be on promoting prosperity, development and employment generation for our people. Strong India-UK friendship is necessary for global progress.”
The message resonated widely, especially among the Indian diaspora, who gathered in large numbers to welcome him.
Massive NRI Support in London
PM Modi was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the Indian community in the UK, particularly in London. Thousands of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) holding the tricolor raised chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Modi-Modi” as the Prime Minister greeted them with folded hands and warm smiles.
One NRI, Ramchandra Shastri, shared,
“PM Modi is a revolutionary leader. He speaks for the entire world, not just India. He understands the ancient scriptures and works for the welfare of all.”
The emotional response from the diaspora highlighted Modi’s global appeal and the deep cultural ties that bind India and the UK.
Impact on India’s Export Sector
According to early economic projections, the India-UK FTA is expected to push Indian exports significantly. With better access to the UK market, Indian goods could witness a surge of $10–12 billion, equivalent to ₹86,000 crore to ₹1.1 lakh crore in the next few years.
Sectors likely to benefit include:
Textiles and apparel
Ayurvedic products and wellness
IT services and fintech
Handicrafts and traditional arts
Organic food and agricultural products
Moreover, the removal of non-tariff barriers is expected to streamline the export process, making it easier for small businesses and startups to enter the international market.
Invitation Extended: Starmer to Visit India Soon
In a significant diplomatic gesture, PM Modi formally invited PM Keir Starmer to visit India, a move that promises to deepen bilateral engagement even further. The invitation, extended after the FTA signing ceremony, is likely to be accepted soon, marking a reciprocal continuation of the new Indo-British era.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in India-UK Relations
The 2025 UK visit of PM Modi stands out as a defining moment in India’s global diplomacy. From the landmark FTA to the launch of Vision 2035, and from diaspora outreach to high-stakes economic diplomacy, every step of this visit reflects India’s growing influence on the global stage.
The bond between India and the United Kingdom has evolved beyond history—it now represents strategic ambition, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.
As PM Modi aptly stated,
“This partnership will not only serve our people but will strengthen the foundations of a better world.”
