Khalistani Threat, Extradition Of Fugitives, FTA: India's Agenda Ahead Of PM Modi's UK Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on an official visit to the United Kingdom on 23rd July for discussions with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer regarding the finalisation of the Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.
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Prime Minister Modi to Visit UK on July 23rd for Key Bilateral Discussions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to make an official visit to the United Kingdom on July 23rd for crucial discussions with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, primarily focusing on the completion of the Free Trade Agreement between the two nations.
"We are currently engaged in legal scrubbing and other final preparatory work that needs to be completed," Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated during a press briefing about PM Modi's upcoming UK visit for the trade pact signing ceremony on July 24.
Mr. Misri also confirmed that PM Modi will have an audience with King Charles III. He added, "The itinerary includes planned interactions with business leaders from both India and the UK. This marks the Prime Minister's fourth visit to the UK since taking office..."
"Our teams are working on the legal details and final preparations for the FTA... The UK represents the sixth-largest investor in India with cumulative investments of $36 billion. Notably, India is also a significant investor in the UK, with nearly $20 billion in cumulative Foreign Direct Investment," Mr. Misri explained.
The two leaders will engage in discussions covering regional and global issues of mutual importance. Mr. Misri addressed security concerns stating, "The presence of Khalistani extremists... has been brought to the attention of our partners in the UK. This should be a matter of concern for our UK partners as well."
On the topic of fugitive extradition, Mr. Misri referenced the case of Tahawwur Rana and indicated that both countries have been in communication about implementing extradition processes effectively.
Responding to media queries, Mr. Misri elaborated, "There are several questions related to fugitives from Indian law and justice in the UK. These have been consistently discussed between both sides, and we continue to advocate for these fugitives to be returned to India. There is, of course, a legal process that such requests must follow in the other country, and we maintain close follow-up with our partners in the UK on these matters."
In a June social media post, PM Modi welcomed the successful conclusion of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement alongside a Double Contribution Convention.
An official government statement noted, "Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom H.E. Sir Keir Starmer had a telephone conversation today. The two leaders welcomed the successful conclusion of an ambitious and mutually beneficial India–UK Free Trade Agreement along with the Double Contribution Convention".
Mr. Starmer commented on the landmark deal, stating it was part of "strengthening alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world" as part of their Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy.
Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada informed the Lok Sabha in writing that FTA negotiations with the UK concluded on May 6, 2025. He described the agreement as a "modern, comprehensive and landmark agreement".
The trade agreement is expected to create significant export opportunities for India, particularly benefiting labor-intensive sectors including textiles, leather, marine products, gems and jewelry, toys, and sports goods. The agreement also presents promising prospects for auto parts, engineering goods, and organic chemicals.
"Delighted to speak with my friend PM Keir Starmer. In a historic milestone, India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, along with a Double Contribution Convention. These landmark agreements will further deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and catalyze trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both our economies," PM Modi stated in a social media post on X.
In May, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy remarked that the trade agreement between the United Kingdom and India is "just the start of supercharging our GBP 43 billion trading relationship".