UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has hailed the new UK-India trade deal as a “launchpad” for strengthening ties between the two nations following a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai.
Leading the UK’s largest-ever trade delegation, comprised of over 100 prominent business and academic leaders, Sir Keir’s two-day visit focused on expanding economic links after the landmark trade agreement was signed in July. He praised the deal as “huge” for the UK and the “most ambitious” ever undertaken by India, emphasizing the opportunity presented by India’s rapidly growing economy, which is projected to become the world’s third-largest by 2028.
Beyond trade, the leaders discussed several key geopolitical issues. Sir Keir confirmed he raised the topic of India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, which helps finance the war in Ukraine. He stated they discussed steps to resolve the conflict and the broader need for “a just and lasting peace.” The case of Jagtar Singh Johal, a British Sikh activist detained in India for seven years without conviction, was also addressed.
During the visit, Sir Keir announced that more British universities, including Lancaster and Surrey, have received approval to open campuses in India. This move is expected to provide a £50 million boost to the UK economy and strengthen educational ties.
The Prime Minister also met with Nandan Nilekani, the founder of India’s digital ID system. The meeting comes as the UK government moves forward with controversial plans to introduce a compulsory digital ID to verify employment rights, despite public opposition.
The UK-India trade deal, which is yet to be fully implemented, has already generated £1 billion in investment and created nearly 7,000 jobs in the UK, according to the government. The agreement will see the UK lower tariffs on Indian imports like clothing and jewellery, while India will reduce duties on British products such as Scotch whisky and luxury cars.
