Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Keir Starmer met in Mumbai on Thursday to strengthen cooperation in trade, defense, and technology, and to advance a landmark trade deal between the two nations.
The meeting marked Starmer’s first official visit to India since taking office in July 2024. His two-day trip comes as New Delhi intensifies efforts to attract global investment for its rapidly growing economy.
Modi said the discussions focused on expanding collaboration in digital infrastructure, defense, education, and critical minerals while building on the trade agreement signed during his visit to London in July. The two sides also sealed a new defense pact under which the UK will supply missiles, launchers, and electric engines for Indian naval ships, according to the British defense ministry.
Calling India and the UK “natural partners,” Modi said the strengthened ties represent “stability in an uncertain world.” He added that the relationship is now “a crucial foundation for global stability and economic progress.” Modi also announced a new military training cooperation framework and confirmed that nine UK universities will open campuses in India.
Starmer, who led a 125-member delegation of business, education, and cultural representatives, said his visit aims to “double down on the potential of the trade deal” to create growth and jobs in both countries. “We are creating a new, modern partnership focusing on the future,” he said.
The trade deal, expected to be implemented within a year, will cut tariffs on key products — including Scotch whisky, English gin, and Indian food exports — and could boost bilateral trade by $34 billion while increasing UK exports to India by nearly 60%, according to the British government.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues, including Indo-Pacific stability, the war in Ukraine, and the situation in Gaza. Starmer welcomed the first phase of a peace plan between Israel and Hamas, saying it brought “profound relief” for hostages, families, and civilians after two years of conflict.
