Keir Starmer has confirmed that he did not extend birthday greetings to Russian leader Vladimir Putin, in contrast to India’s warm wishes. Arriving in Mumbai for discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to increasing pressure on the Kremlin. Meanwhile, despite ongoing Russian oil purchases by Modi’s administration following the Ukraine invasion, Modi expressed well-wishes to his friend Putin on his birthday.
In a public message, Modi conveyed his warm regards and best wishes for Putin’s health and longevity, praising the Russian president’s efforts in strengthening India-Russia relations. Starmer, on the occasion of Putin’s 73rd birthday, clarified that he did not send any birthday wishes to Putin and emphasized the UK’s focus on curbing Russian energy through initiatives like the Shadow Fleet, where the UK has taken a leading role alongside other nations.
As part of his two-day trip to bolster ties with Modi’s government, Starmer pledged to advocate for British companies in India. Accompanied by a delegation of 125 business leaders, university officials, and others, including prominent firms like Rolls Royce, British Telecom, and British Airways, the visit aims to build on the £4.8 billion annual trade deal signed between Starmer and Modi earlier in the year.
Looking ahead to the visit, Starmer highlighted the trade deal with India as a foundation for future growth opportunities, given India’s projected status as the world’s third-largest economy by 2028. The visit also coincided with British Airways announcing plans to introduce a third daily flight between Delhi and London Heathrow by 2026, alongside the launch of a new route between Manchester and Delhi by IndiGo, India’s largest airline.
Furthermore, Business Secretary Peter Kyle, investment minister Jason Stockwood, and Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander accompanied Starmer on the trip, underscoring the UK’s commitment to expanding trade relations with India. Expressing optimism about the trade potential with India, Kyle emphasized the rapid progress made in advancing trade discussions and bringing key industry leaders to India’s commercial hub.