Keir Starmer is embarking on his inaugural trip to India today following the recent signing of a significant trade agreement with Narendra Modi. Accompanied by more than 100 UK business leaders and university heads, the Prime Minister will convene in Mumbai to enhance relations with India. The trade pact, valued at £6 billion, was finalized during Mr. Starmer’s previous meeting with PM Modi at Chequers in Buckinghamshire.
Describing the deal as the most economically impactful since Brexit, Mr. Starmer highlighted that once ratified, it will substantially reduce tariffs on key UK exports like whisky and gin. This agreement comes three years after former PM Boris Johnson’s unsuccessful attempts to secure a post-Brexit deal with India.
India’s ministry of external affairs confirmed that both Mr. Modi and Mr. Starmer will also participate in the Global Fintech conference in Mumbai. The visit aims to reinforce the shared vision of India and the United Kingdom in establishing a forward-looking partnership.
However, Mr. Starmer may face inquiries regarding India’s acquisition of Russian oil amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Recent tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump on Indian goods, including penalties for transactions with Russia, might also be a topic of discussion during the visit.