The visit concluded with a reaffirmation that India–UK cooperation will remain a cornerstone of stability and economic progress in a turbulent global landscape
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s first official visit to India has underlined a renewed commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship, with economic cooperation, fintech, and a long-awaited free trade agreement (FTA) emerging as central themes. Starmer, who arrived in Mumbai with a high-profile business delegation, held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi before jointly addressing the India–UK CEO Summit and the Global Fintech Fest.
Starmer declared that India is firmly on track to become the world’s third-largest economy and stressed that the UK intends to be a major partner in that trajectory. Both leaders highlighted shared goals in technology, finance, innovation and clean energy, while reaffirming the strategic value of deeper commercial ties.
Prime Minister Modi described India and the UK as “natural partners,” noting that a comprehensive FTA could accelerate trade flows, strengthen MSMEs, generate employment and unlock cross-border investment. The negotiations—ongoing for over two years—received a fresh push during the visit, with both sides signalling flexibility on market access issues and regulatory cooperation.
At the CEO Summit, Starmer engaged directly with industry leaders from banking, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, digital services and renewable energy. Discussions focused on simplifying business procedures, expanding fintech collaboration and deepening university-industry partnerships.
Starmer’s visit also carried considerable political significance. As his first trip to India since assuming office, it reflects the UK’s intent to reset global partnerships post-Brexit and increase engagement with high-growth economies. His presence in Mumbai and New Delhi underscores India’s role as a priority partner in London’s foreign and economic policy.
The British delegation included representatives from major UK firms exploring opportunities in infrastructure, digital payments, healthcare innovation and green technologies. With India rapidly digitising its economy and expanding renewable capacity, both leaders emphasised the potential for combining UK expertise with India’s scale and innovation.
Starmer’s remarks at the fintech forum highlighted India’s digital public infrastructure as a model for global financial inclusion. He noted that collaborative innovation between British fintech companies and Indian platforms such as UPI could set new international standards in secure and inclusive digital payments.
