Mumbai: United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Mumbai on Wednesday for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening economic and strategic relations between India and the UK. The visit marks Starmer’s first major overseas trade mission since assuming office and comes shortly after the signing of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in July this year.
Accompanied by a high-level delegation of business leaders, academics, and cultural representatives, Starmer’s visit is focused on advancing cooperation in key areas such as technology, artificial intelligence, fintech, and sustainable infrastructure. The delegation, comprising more than 120 members, is set to explore new partnerships and investment opportunities that can further boost trade and innovation between the two nations.
During his trip, Starmer is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the implementation of the trade agreement and evaluate progress under the Vision 2035 roadmap, a long-term plan to deepen bilateral collaboration. The leaders are also expected to deliberate on expanding investment flows, promoting green energy cooperation, and enhancing security ties in the Indo-Pacific region.
Speaking to reporters before his departure, Starmer emphasized that the trade deal would not include any new provisions related to visa liberalization or migration. He clarified that the focus of his visit is on economic growth and business development rather than changes to visa policies. “This visit is about strengthening our economic partnership, creating jobs, and ensuring that both countries benefit from open and fair trade,” Starmer said.
The India–UK trade pact aims to eliminate tariffs on over 90 percent of goods traded between the two nations, opening new avenues for exporters and investors. However, challenges remain in implementing the agreement, especially in regulatory alignment and non-tariff barriers that affect sectors such as automobiles and pharmaceuticals.
Starmer is also expected to address the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai, highlighting the UK’s ambition to collaborate with India on digital finance and emerging technologies. Both countries see this partnership as a key driver for future economic growth and innovation.
The visit underscores Britain’s strategic intent to deepen ties with India amid a global economic realignment. For India, it presents an opportunity to expand its footprint in European markets and attract greater investment from the UK. The outcomes of Starmer’s discussions with Prime Minister Modi are expected to set the tone for the next phase of the India–UK partnership in trade, innovation, and strategic cooperation.