What Can We Expect from PM Modi's UK Visit?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's significant diplomatic visit to the UK.
- Focus on enhancing India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
- Discussions on Free Trade Agreement expected to double trade by 2030.
- Addressing concerns regarding Khalistani extremism in the UK.
- Strengthening bilateral ties through high-level engagements.
New Delhi/London, July 24 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has touched down in London on Wednesday evening for a pivotal two-day visit to the United Kingdom (UK), which is set to enhance diplomatic relations and regional collaboration.
This trip, occurring from July 23 to 24, is at the invitation of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and marks Modi's fourth visit to the nation.
On his social media account on platform X, PM Modi stated, "I am heading to the UK, where our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has gained substantial momentum over recent years. I look forward to engaging with PM Keir Starmer and meeting His Majesty King Charles III."
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, both nations will assess the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) during this visit, specifically concentrating on areas such as trade and economy, technology and innovation, defense and security, climate, health, education, and people-to-people connections.
The discussions are also anticipated to cover regional and global issues of shared interest.
This visit is poised to rejuvenate the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with both leaders aiming to evaluate ongoing progress and explore new avenues for collaboration, including the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
During his stay, PM Modi is expected to meet with King Charles III.
The FTA, which has been under negotiation for three years, is projected to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and lower tariffs on 90% of British goods.
It is estimated that the agreement could double bilateral trade by 2030, increasing the current $60 billion figure, and enhance British exports like whisky and cars to India.
PM Modi is also expected to express concerns regarding Khalistani extremists in the UK.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri noted, "The issue of Khalistani extremists and their affiliates has been brought to the attention of our UK partners."
The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that this visit builds on ongoing high-level interactions between the two countries. PM Modi and PM Starmer have already met twice — once in Brazil during the G20 Summit and again at the G7 in June 2025 — in addition to several phone discussions.