The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer will undertake his first official visit to India on October 8-9, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit is set to deepen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, building on the momentum established during Modi’s visit to the UK on July 23-24.
During his two-day visit, Starmer will meet Prime Minister Modi in Mumbai on October 9 to review progress across various dimensions of the India-UK partnership, guided by the ‘Vision 2035’ roadmap. This 10-year plan outlines focused initiatives in key areas such as trade and investment, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate and energy, health, education, and people-to-people relations.
The discussions aim to advance the shared objectives of both nations in fostering a forward-looking, robust partnership.
A key focus of the visit will be the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which is considered a cornerstone of the future economic relationship between the two countries. Modi and Starmer will engage with business and industry leaders to explore opportunities presented by the CETA, emphasising its role in enhancing bilateral trade and investment.
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The leaders will also exchange perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual significance, reflecting the strategic alignment between India and the UK.
In addition to their bilateral discussions, both leaders will attend and deliver keynote addresses at the 6th edition of the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai. This platform will enable them to interact with industry experts, policymakers, and innovators, showcasing the potential for collaboration in the rapidly evolving fintech sector and reinforcing the economic ties between the two nations.
The MEA highlighted that Starmer’s visit will build on the momentum and substance generated during Modi’s recent trip to the UK, offering a valuable opportunity to reaffirm the shared vision of a dynamic and forward-looking partnership. The visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen cooperation across multiple domains, positioning the India-UK relationship as a vital force in addressing global challenges and fostering mutual prosperity.
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