In a significant move, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met with his British counterpart Rt. Hon. Sir Keir Starmer on July 24, 2025, during his official visit to the United Kingdom. The two leaders held a one-on-one meeting and delegation-level talks, marking a new era in India-UK relations.
During their discussions, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer welcomed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which aims to enhance bilateral trade, investment, economic collaborations, and job creation between the two nations. The CETA is expected to significantly raise the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to a new level.
The two leaders also agreed to negotiate a Double Contribution Convention, which will facilitate professionals and service industry in both countries by promoting competitiveness and reducing the cost of doing business for commercial entities. This convention is expected to come into effect along with the CETA.
In addition, Prime Minister Modi underlined the growing collaboration between India's GIFT City and the UK's vibrant financial ecosystem, with a focus on promoting greater interaction between the two hubs.
The two leaders reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations and adopted the India-UK Vision 2035, which aims to steer the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for the next ten years in key areas such as economy and growth, technology, innovation, research and education, defence and security, climate action, health, and people-to-people ties.
Furthermore, they welcomed the finalization of a Defence Industrial Roadmap, which will promote collaboration in co-design, co-development, and co-production of defence products. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the deepening defence and security partnership, as well as their commitment to strengthening the global fight against terrorism.
Prime Minister Modi also sought UK's cooperation in bringing economic offenders and fugitives to justice, while Prime Minister Starmer extended his strong support and solidarity to the people of India following the Pahalgam terror attack.
The two leaders exchanged views on global and regional issues of mutual interest, including developments in the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Key Agreements Signed:
Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)
India-UK Vision 2035
Defence Industrial Roadmap
Statement on Technology and Security Initiative
Memorandum of Understanding between Central Bureau of Investigation, India and National Crime Agency of UK
In a gesture of goodwill, Prime Minister Starmer thanked Prime Minister Modi for his warm hospitality and invited him to visit the UK at the earliest convenience.