India PM Modi’s UK visit to boost ties, FTA on agenda

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United Kingdom from July 23 to 24 aims to further strengthen the strategic and economic partnership between the two nations. The highlight of the visit is expected to be the signing of the long-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), under negotiation for three years.

The FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and reduce duties on 90% of British goods, such as whisky and automobiles. The deal is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030, up from the current $60 billion.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Modi will hold wide-ranging talks with his British counterpart, Sir Keir Starmer, covering the full spectrum of bilateral relations. They are also expected to exchange views on key regional and global issues.

Over the years, India-UK ties have evolved into a robust, multi-faceted, and mutually beneficial partnership, elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. The two sides have engaged in sustained high-level interactions, with Modi and Starmer having met twice in the past year — once on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil (November 2024) and again at the G7 Summit (June 2025). They have also held several phone conversations.

A testament to the strength of the relationship is the existence of five institutional ministerial-level mechanisms spanning strategic affairs, economy and finance, trade, energy, and science and technology. Recent dialogues include the Foreign Office Consultations, the Defence Consultative Group, and the 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue.

Bilateral trade reached a record $55 billion in 2024, registering a 10% increase over 2023. The conclusion of the FTA, announced jointly on May 6, 2025, by both Prime Ministers, marks a major milestone.

During the visit, PM Modi will also meet King Charles III and hold discussions on enhancing cooperation in areas such as defence, climate action, innovation, and education. Defence and security ties, including regular military exchanges and collaboration on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and semiconductors, are expected to feature prominently.

One sensitive issue likely to be raised is the presence of Khalistani extremists in the UK. India has consistently conveyed its concerns about these groups, which it views as threats to national security and social cohesion. The UK government has assured India it will take necessary action.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reiterated India’s position, stating, “The presence of Khalistani extremists and associated groups is a matter of concern. We have raised this issue with our UK partners and will continue to do so. This is not just our concern — it also impacts social cohesion and order in the host country.”

Misri also confirmed that India and the UK are engaged in ongoing discussions regarding the extradition of fugitives facing legal proceedings in India. “These matters follow a legal process in the UK, and we are working very closely with our counterparts to ensure due action is taken,” he said.

The leaders will also review progress in other areas, including climate action, healthcare, education, and people-to-people ties. The Indian diaspora in the UK, comprising approximately 2.7% of the British population, continues to serve as a vital bridge between the two countries, contributing to both societies and fostering deeper cultural and economic cooperation.

Following the UK visit, Prime Minister Modi will travel to the Maldives from July 25 to 26. He will be the Guest of Honour at the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations and will hold talks with President Mohamed Muizzu to review the progress of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.

The Maldives visit aims to reset and reinvigorate bilateral relations, which have seen some tensions in recent months.