London: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in London for a two-day official visit to the United Kingdom, taking place from July 23 to 24. Upon arrival at the airport, Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by Catherine West, the UK Foreign Office Minister in charge of the Indo-Pacific, along with Indian High Commissioner to the UK Vikram Doraiswami and British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron. This visit signifies a pivotal moment in enhancing India-UK relations, with high-level discussions anticipated between PM Modi and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “I have arrived in London. This visit will significantly contribute to advancing the economic partnership between our countries. The emphasis will be on promoting prosperity, growth, and increasing job opportunities for our citizens. A robust India-UK friendship is vital for global advancement,” Prime Minister Modi stated on X.

Comprehensive discussions with Keir Starmer

During this visit, the two leaders are expected to engage in extensive and thorough discussions that will encompass the full range of bilateral relations. India and the United Kingdom are on the verge of signing a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on Thursday during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UK, marking the conclusion of nearly three years of rigorous negotiations. According to reports, this FTA will represent India’s first significant bilateral trade agreement with a developed nation in over a decade.

Once finalized, the agreement is anticipated to take effect following legal approvals from the British Parliament and India’s Union Cabinet. The two countries will also assess the progress achieved under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with particular focus on critical areas such as trade and economy, defense and security, technology and innovation, climate action, health, education, and strengthening people-to-people connections.

A warm reception from the Indian diaspora

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his appreciation for the enthusiastic welcome extended by the Indian community during his visit, describing their love and dedication to India’s advancement as “truly heartening.” In a message on X, PM Modi remarked, “I am touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in the UK. Their affection and enthusiasm for India’s progress is genuinely uplifting.” Members of the diaspora shared their joy and admiration after meeting the Prime Minister, describing the experience as surreal and emotionally overwhelming.

PM Modi was welcomed by enthusiastic groups of community leaders, students, and parliamentarians who gathered in anticipation on the outskirts of London. They expressed their excitement regarding the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) expected to be signed on Thursday, viewing it as a sign of deepening relations.

PM Modi is set to meet with King Charles III

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will also have an audience with King Charles III. This marks the Prime Minister’s fourth trip to the United Kingdom since he took office. His previous visits occurred in 2015 and 2018, and he attended the COP26 summit in Glasgow in 2021. In the past year alone, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer have convened twice: first at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year, and more recently, just last month in June, at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Canada.