UK PM Keir Starmer Hails India as "Economic Superpower in the Making" During Historic Trade Partnership Visit

The India-UK trade deal serves as a significant launchpad to enhance British leadership in global markets.

Mumbai:

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared on Thursday that India is emerging as an economic superpower, noting that the world's largest democracy is projected to become the third largest economy by 2028.

"The United Kingdom is perfectly positioned to be a partner in this transformative journey," Starmer stated during a press conference in Mumbai.

Following his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier that day, Starmer revealed they had discussions regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

When questioned about whether India's oil purchases from Russia were addressed during his talks with PM Modi, Starmer confirmed, "We did discuss this matter and focused particularly on the outcome we both desire."

"Prime Minister Modi and I concentrated on ending this conflict and explored various potential steps to achieve that goal, engaging in a comprehensive discussion. We outlined the measures we are implementing in relation to energy," he elaborated.

Starmer emphasized that the India-UK trade deal provides a platform to strengthen British leadership across various sectors including technology, life sciences, renewable energy and beyond. He also mentioned that both nations are enhancing the UK-India Technology Security Initiative.

"I arrived here leading our largest-ever business delegation to India to capitalize on this trade agreement," he stated, highlighting the exceptional benefits the deal offers to British citizens.

"India, as the world's largest democracy, is on course to become the world's third largest economy by 2028. It is truly an economic superpower in the making," he remarked.

Starmer also expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for the Gaza peace plan.

"I welcome the announcement that an agreement has been reached on the initial stage of President Trump's peace plan for Gaza," he said, adding that Britain would support the complete implementation of a peace plan in Gaza, including hostage returns and humanitarian assistance, following Israel and Hamas's agreement to the first phase.

"This represents a moment of profound relief that will resonate worldwide, particularly for the hostages, their families, and Gaza's civilian population, who have endured unimaginable suffering over the past two years," Starmer said.

"We will collaborate with our partners to ensure this deal is fully implemented without delay," he affirmed.

When asked if Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for this development, Starmer responded, "This is indeed a very significant step."

Regarding the warm reception in Mumbai, complete with hoardings and posters welcoming him and his delegation, the British PM commented, "The welcome has been exceptionally warm."

He expressed appreciation for the excellent reception his delegation received in Mumbai.

Starmer also addressed questions about opposition in the UK to implementing a system similar to India's digital ID program, which he acknowledged as successful.

When a reporter suggested he might have a "reverse Midas touch," highlighting the contrast between his reception in India versus his popularity in the UK, Starmer remained focused on bilateral cooperation.

Discussing growing collaboration with India, Starmer announced that three new Bollywood blockbusters will be produced in the UK, and several British universities plan to establish campuses in India.

"There is tremendous optimism surrounding the trade deal, which is evident from this visit. The same enthusiasm was present in July when we hosted PM Modi and signed the agreement," he recalled.

Starmer noted that businesses are already capitalizing on the new opportunities created by the trade agreement.

"While the deal is yet to be implemented, which we will do expeditiously, it has already generated new opportunities and confidence," he observed.

"Both PM Modi and I recognize that in today's increasingly uncertain global trade and economic environment, it is significant that our two important economies have formalized this agreement, providing much-needed stability," he stated.

Highlighting India-UK collaboration in technology, Starmer said, "The UK is one of only three countries globally with a trillion-dollar tech sector. India is positioned to become the fourth. We both rank among the top four AI powers, and we're seizing this opportunity to advance further."