Keir Starmer is embarking on his inaugural trip to India today following the conclusion of a significant trade agreement with Narendra Modi. Accompanied by more than 100 UK business leaders and university heads, the Prime Minister will visit Mumbai to strengthen the bonds between the two nations. The treaty, valued at £6 billion and sealed during a meeting at Chequers in Buckinghamshire, marks a new era in the shared history of the UK and India according to Mr. Modi.
Described by Mr. Starmer as the most economically impactful since Brexit, the deal, once ratified, will lead to a substantial reduction in tariffs on key British exports like whisky and gin. This agreement comes after a three-year delay following the unmet promise by former PM Boris Johnson to secure a post-Brexit deal with India.
Further enhancing the diplomatic ties, Mr. Modi and Mr. Starmer are slated to attend the Global Fintech conference in Mumbai. The visit aims to reinforce the collaborative vision of India and the United Kingdom for a progressive partnership. However, concerns may arise during the visit regarding India’s procurement of Russian oil amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Recent actions by the US, including imposing tariffs on India for its dealings with Russia, may prompt questions for Mr. Starmer.