UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Mumbai on Wednesday for a two-day visit, months after India and Britain signed a landmark free trade agreement (FTA). He came with a 125-member delegation, including top business leaders like British Airways CEO Sean Doyle.
During his visit, Starmer will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and address a fintech conference. The trip highlights growing India-UK economic ties amid global trade shifts, especially with the US.
Starmer received a warm welcome at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport from Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat, CM Devendra Fadnavis, and other senior officials. On the first day, he will also hold talks with Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar.
On Thursday, Starmer and Modi will meet at Raj Bhavan to review progress on the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, part of the “Vision 2035” roadmap. They will later attend the CEO Forum and the 6th Global Fintech Fest, engaging with business leaders and industry experts on opportunities under the new FTA.
The trade deal lowers tariffs on goods like whisky, cosmetics, and medical devices from Britain, while India benefits on clothing, footwear, and frozen prawns. Starmer confirmed that expanding visa access for Indian professionals is not part of the current plan.
The UK Prime Minister will leave India Thursday night, having reinforced the shared vision for stronger economic and strategic ties.
