PM Modi's Two-Day UK Visit Begins Today, July 23: What's On Agenda?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to begin an official visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives starting tomorrow. During his UK visit, he will engage in discussions with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and meet King Charles III. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri shared that Mr. Modi will also interact with business leaders from both nations. This marks Mr. Modi's fourth visit to the UK.

The India-UK relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. Mr. Misri highlighted that both countries are committed to further enhancing this partnership. Business, technology, research, and innovation have become key areas of cooperation between the two nations.

India-UK Bilateral Relations

The University of Southampton recently opened a campus in Gurugram, marking the first foreign university under India's New Education Policy. Other UK universities are considering similar moves. In 2023-24, bilateral trade between India and the UK surpassed $55 billion. The UK ranks as the sixth-largest investor in India with investments totaling $36 billion.

India is also a significant source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the UK, contributing nearly $20 billion. Approximately a thousand Indian companies operate in the UK, providing employment opportunities there.

Infrastructure and Defence Cooperation

The UK India Infrastructure Financing Bridge facilitates collaboration between NITI Aayog and the City of London to mobilise finance for green infrastructure projects in India. Regular interactions occur between India and the UK in the defence sector as well.

Mr. Misri noted that the UK remains a major partner for India in research and innovation. Discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are ongoing, with both sides engaged in finalising legal details.

Visit to Maldives

Following his UK visit, Mr. Modi will travel to Maldives from 25th to 26th July at President Mohamed Muizzu's invitation. He will be the 'Guest of Honour' at Maldives' 60th Independence anniversary celebrations on 26th July.

This marks Mr. Modi's third visit to Maldives and is the first by a Head of State or Government during Dr. Muizzu's presidency. Meetings with President Muizzu and infrastructure project inaugurations are planned.

India-Maldives Relations

Maldives is crucial to India's Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR initiative. India has consistently supported Maldives during crises, whether natural or manmade, fostering strong political ties through high-level visits.

Bilateral trade between India and Maldives stands at nearly $500 million, with discussions underway for a Free Trade Agreement and Investment Treaty focusing on renewable energy and fisheries cooperation.

Defence Collaboration

India maintains robust defence cooperation with Maldives, assisting in capacity building and training Maldivian defence personnel. Both countries collaborate within the Colombo Security Conclave framework.

India's High Commissioner to the UK, Mr. Vikram Kumar Doraiswami, expressed optimism about Mr. Modi's visit benefiting both nations economically through potential free trade agreements.

"Prime Minister Modi places great emphasis on elevating relations between our countries," said Mr. Doraiswami regarding Mr. Modi's commitment to strengthening ties beyond their current state.

The issue of Khalistani extremists remains a concern for India, as highlighted by Foreign Secretary Misri during discussions with the UK government due to its impact on social cohesion.