UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Set for First Official Visit to India, Strengthening Strategic Ties
New Delhi – The Ministry of External Affairs announced that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will make his first official visit to India on October 8–9, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit is being seen as a major step forward in deepening India–UK relations under the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, aligned with the ambitious ‘Vision 2035’ roadmap.
Building on the momentum of Prime Minister Modi’s successful visit to the United Kingdom in July 2025, this engagement will reaffirm both nations’ shared commitment to a modern, forward-looking partnership. It is expected to strengthen collaboration across key sectors including trade, investment, innovation, defence, climate action, healthcare, and education.
As part of the visit, Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer will jointly participate in the 6th edition of the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai. Both leaders will deliver keynote addresses, engage with policymakers, innovators, and industry leaders, and showcase India and the UK’s growing role as hubs of global fintech innovation.
The visit will also highlight opportunities under the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), a central pillar of the economic relationship. Business and industry leaders from both sides are expected to discuss ways to unlock fresh opportunities in technology, manufacturing, clean energy, and services, further boosting bilateral trade.
According to the MEA, the discussions will also include wide-ranging global and regional issues of mutual interest, reflecting the growing importance of India–UK cooperation in today’s interconnected world. With a focus on people-to-people ties, cultural exchanges, and youth-driven initiatives, the visit is expected to add a new dimension to bilateral relations.
Seen internationally as a pivotal engagement, Prime Minister Starmer’s first official visit to India is being welcomed as a symbol of renewed trust and collaboration between the two democracies. By working together on innovation, security, sustainability, and economic growth, both countries are poised to shape a partnership that not only benefits their citizens but also contributes to global stability and progress.
