Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on a two-day visit to the United Kingdom from July 23 to 24, with a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) expected to headline the agenda. This visit—his fourth to the UK since taking office in 2014—marks a critical moment in India–UK relations, one that blends economic ambition with evolving geopolitical priorities.
Trade Deal Takes Centre Stage
At the heart of the visit is the official signing of the India-UK FTA, a pact that has been in negotiation for nearly three years. The agreement aims to slash tariffs, simplify market access, and strengthen partnerships across sectors including services and investment. The Indian Cabinet approved the deal on Tuesday, clearing the path for its formal endorsement during Modi’s meeting with newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The FTA had initially been announced on May 6, but its final draft had been under legal review until now. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will accompany the Prime Minister for the signing, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirming that the agreement is now ready after legal scrubbing.
Resetting Strategic Ties
While trade is the primary focus, the significance of this visit extends far beyond economics. With India on a path to modernise its defence capabilities, discussions are expected to explore enhanced cooperation in defence technology and manufacturing. This visit signals a broader diplomatic reset—one that aligns with mutual interests in defence, security, and global governance.
Security and Justice: Key Issues on the Agenda
Modi’s meetings with the British leadership are also likely to cover sensitive issues such as the extradition of fugitive economic offenders and India’s broader concerns about cross-border terrorism.
Another key matter is the rise in pro-Khalistan activism in the UK. Some of the movement’s supporters are believed to operate from British territory, raising concerns in New Delhi. In response, UK authorities have reportedly taken strong precautionary steps to ensure security during Modi’s visit. Local law enforcement agencies have been briefed on India’s concerns, particularly the possibility of protests by pro-Khalistan groups attempting to disrupt official events.
A New Era in India-UK Relations
This visit also marks the beginning of a new political chapter in London, with Keir Starmer’s Labour Party having recently won a sweeping election victory. The FTA, and the wider diplomatic engagement around it, represent an opportunity to recalibrate ties following several years of political flux in the UK, during which the country saw three different Prime Ministers.
With economic cooperation, defence collaboration, and security dialogue all on the table, Prime Minister Modi’s UK trip is shaping up to be more than symbolic—it is a short but strategically significant mission that could redefine bilateral ties in a rapidly changing global order.