PM Modi to begin two-day visit to the UK tomorrow, says MEA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin his official two-day visit to the United Kingdom on Wednesday, July 23, at the invitation of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This visit is expected to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations, with a strong focus on trade, investment, and other areas of cooperation.

During the visit, PM Modi will hold detailed discussions with Prime Minister Starmer to review the progress made in various sectors and to finalize pending agreements. He will also meet King Charles III and interact with prominent business leaders from both countries. According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, this will be PM Modi’s fourth visit to the UK since taking office in 2014.

Focus on trade and bilateral relations

One of the key highlights of the visit will be discussions on the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Both countries have been in talks to finalize the FTA, which aims to boost trade and economic ties by reducing tariffs and facilitating easier market access. Misri said that India and the UK have been in close contact since the announcement on May 6, when both leaders confirmed that negotiations on the FTA and other important issues had been concluded. “We will update you on the final details related to this at the appropriate time,” Misri stated during a media briefing.

In addition to trade, the leaders are likely to discuss a range of bilateral issues, including cooperation in defence, technology, climate change, and education. The visit is also expected to create new opportunities for collaboration between Indian and British businesses. PM Modi’s interaction with business leaders from both nations will focus on investment opportunities, innovation, and strengthening the economic partnership.

The India-UK relationship has seen significant growth in recent years, especially in areas like green energy, technology startups, and higher education. Both governments aim to further expand their strategic partnership by signing new agreements during this visit.

Meeting King Charles III and other engagements

PM Modi’s visit will also include a meeting with King Charles III, which is seen as an important step in strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties between India and the UK. The Prime Minister will also take part in multiple engagements, including business forums and roundtable discussions with industry leaders.

The visit is expected to send a strong message of India’s growing global influence and its commitment to deepening ties with the UK. With both nations celebrating their historical connections while looking toward a future of innovation and cooperation, this visit comes at a crucial time for both economies.

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Visit to Maldives after UK trip

After completing his UK visit, PM Modi will travel to the Maldives for the second leg of his two-nation tour. He will visit the Maldives on July 25 and 26 at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The Prime Minister will be the Guest of Honour at the celebrations of the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence, scheduled for July 26.

This will be PM Modi’s third visit to the Maldives, and it will mark a significant diplomatic moment as he will be the first head of government to undertake a state visit hosted by President Muizzu since he assumed office in November 2023. The visit will focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas such as maritime security, tourism, and development projects.

PM Modi’s back-to-back visits to the UK and Maldives underline India’s proactive approach to strengthening international partnerships. While the UK visit is aimed at boosting trade, investment, and cultural exchanges, the Maldives visit reflects India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy.

Experts believe that the Free Trade Agreement with the UK, once finalized, will open new avenues for Indian businesses and improve trade flows between the two countries. The UK is one of India’s key trading partners, and the FTA is expected to significantly enhance trade volumes and economic growth.

In addition, PM Modi’s interactions with UK business leaders are likely to pave the way for greater investment in sectors like technology, renewable energy, and manufacturing. India’s growing digital economy and its push toward clean energy align with the UK’s focus on sustainability and innovation.

Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visits are being closely watched by both domestic and international observers. His fourth visit to the UK highlights the deepening relationship between India and the UK, with trade, economic growth, and cultural ties at the centre of discussions. Meanwhile, his visit to the Maldives will further strengthen India’s role as a key partner in South Asia, particularly in maritime and regional cooperation.

As the Prime Minister prepares for these high-level engagements, expectations are high for significant announcements, particularly regarding the long-awaited Free Trade Agreement with the UK. These visits are likely to further cement India’s position on the global stage as a nation ready to collaborate, innovate, and lead in the years ahead.