New Delhi – The PM UK Visit Begins today as Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on a significant two-day diplomatic mission to Britain, marking a pivotal moment in India-UK relations. The PM UK Visit Begins with a packed agenda focusing on sealing the long-awaited free trade agreement that has been under negotiation since January 2022.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized that the PM UK Visit Begins a crucial phase of strengthening bilateral ties across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, defense, and security cooperation. The PM UK Visit Begins against the backdrop of enhanced economic collaboration between the two nations, with both sides eager to formalize their comprehensive partnership.
The timing of when the PM UK Visit Begins is particularly significant, as it follows the finalization of the FTA on May 6, 2025, by both Modi and his British counterpart Keir Starmer. The PM UK Visit Begins with high expectations from business communities in both countries who anticipate substantial economic benefits from the formal trade agreement.
High-Level Meetings and Historic Trade Agreement
As the PM UK Visit Begins, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III during his July 23-24 stay in Britain. The PM UK Visit Begins with Starmer expected to host Modi at Chequers, the prestigious country residence of the British Prime Minister located 50 kilometers northwest of London.
The centerpiece of when the PM UK Visit Begins will be the formal signing of the Free Trade Agreement by Commerce Ministers Piyush Goyal and Jonathan Reynolds. This ceremonial signing represents the culmination of extensive negotiations that commenced when formal talks began in January 2022.
The PM UK Visit Begins with projections that the FTA will significantly boost bilateral trade from the current level of $58 billion by an additional $34 billion in the long term. India stands to benefit from tariff elimination on 99% of its tariff lines under this deal, covering nearly 100% of trade value.
Economic Benefits and Trade Advantages
When the PM UK Visit Begins, both nations will celebrate substantial economic advantages embedded in the trade agreement. The UK will receive reduced tariffs on 90% of British tariff lines, including significant cuts on whisky, automobiles, lamb, and medical devices.
The PM UK Visit Begins with particular benefits for India’s labor-intensive sectors, especially textiles and apparel, which will gain competitive advantages over countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam. Under the Double Contribution Convention, Indian employers will receive exemptions from paying social security contributions in the UK for three years, facilitating easier worker postings to Britain.
Investment flows between the nations underscore why the PM UK Visit Begins with such economic significance. The UK ranks as the sixth-largest investor in India, with cumulative investments reaching $36 billion, while Indian investments in the UK approach $20 billion.
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Approximately 1,000 Indian companies operating in Britain provide employment to nearly 100,000 people and generate cumulative revenues of $91 billion, demonstrating the substantial economic interdependence that the PM UK Visit Begins to further strengthen.
Technology and Innovation Cooperation
The PM UK Visit Begins with renewed focus on technology, research, innovation, and education as key pillars of India-UK cooperation. The India-UK Technology Security Initiative, finalized last year, has driven collaboration in telecommunications, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, semiconductors, and quantum computing.
Recent developments include the University of Southampton opening a campus in Gurugram, becoming the first foreign university to establish presence under India’s new education policy. Several other British institutions are considering similar campus establishments in India.
Security Arrangements and Diplomatic Considerations
As the PM UK Visit Begins, extensive security arrangements have been implemented to prevent disruptions from pro-Khalistan elements. Both sides remain vigilant following a March incident when a pro-Khalistan protester breached security during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s London visit.
Foreign Secretary Misri emphasized that Khalistani extremist presence in the UK impacts “social cohesion and social order” and should concern British authorities.
Maldives Visit and Regional Strategy
Following the UK portion, Modi will travel to the Maldives during July 25-26, where he will be the first foreign head of government hosted by President Mohamed Muizzu. This visit represents a remarkable turnaround in bilateral relations that had deteriorated due to Muizzu’s “India Out” campaign in late 2023.
The Maldives visit aligns with India’s Neighborhood First policy and MAHASAGAR vision for regional security and growth. India serves as one of the Maldives’ largest trade partners, with bilateral trade worth approximately $500 million.
Development Projects and Financial Cooperation
India continues executing several development projects in the Maldives through concessional credit lines and buyer’s credit facilities. The flagship Greater Malé Connectivity Project will connect four islands, demonstrating India’s commitment to Maldivian infrastructure development.
The Maldives has nearly exhausted a $400 million currency swap arrangement provided as emergency financial assistance and is prepared to utilize another ₹30 billion currency swap facility. The State Bank of India continues re-subscribing to Maldives treasury bills, maintaining financial cooperation.
Defense and Maritime Security Partnership
Robust defense and security cooperation includes naval exercises and training programs for Maldivian defense personnel. India assists the Maldives in enhancing EEZ surveillance and maritime domain awareness through ship and asset provision, strengthening regional maritime security frameworks.
