New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a four-day journey to the United Kingdom and the Maldives starting Wednesday, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations in trade, investment, and defense.

During the first part of his visit, Modi will head to London for extensive discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

PM Modi is expected to engage in comprehensive talks with PM Starmer covering the full spectrum of India-UK bilateral relations, in addition to sharing perspectives on regional and global issues, the MEA announced on Sunday regarding the two-nation trip.

Modi’s visit to the UK on July 23-24 marks his fourth trip to the nation. The MEA also indicated that he is likely to meet with King Charles III.

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“Throughout the visit, both parties will assess the advancements of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), particularly focusing on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defense and security, climate, health, education, and people-to-people connections,” the MEA mentioned in a statement.

Following his time in London, Modi will proceed to the Maldives to celebrate the island nation’s 60th Independence anniversary on July 26.

PM Modi will conduct a State Visit to the Maldives from July 25 to 26 at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu, according to the MEA. This will mark Modi’s third visit to the Maldives.

PM Modi and President Muizzu will discuss matters of mutual interest and review the progress made in executing the India-Maldives joint vision for a ‘Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership’, which was established during Muizzu’s visit to India in October of the previous year.

The visit underscores the significance that India places on its maritime neighbor, the Maldives, which remains a key component of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), according to the MEA.

The MEA noted that this visit will create an opportunity for both nations to enhance and fortify their close bilateral ties.