In a significant diplomatic move, United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Mumbai today, marking his first official visit to India since taking office earlier this year. The visit is being seen as an important step toward strengthening UK-India relations, with a focus on trade, investment, education, and technology cooperation.
Starmer was welcomed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport with traditional Indian hospitality, complete with a ceremonial greeting and a brief cultural performance. His itinerary in Mumbai includes meetings with leading Indian business leaders, Bollywood representatives, and start-up innovators, reflecting his emphasis on modern partnerships that go beyond politics.
According to officials, Starmer will also visit Delhi later in the week to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and key ministers. The two leaders are expected to discuss the long-pending India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), climate collaboration, and regional security issues.
Ahead of his visit, Starmer had said that the UK and India share “deep people-to-people ties” and that he hopes to “open a new chapter” in their bilateral relationship. His trip is also viewed as an effort to re-engage with the Indian diaspora in Britain, one of the most influential communities in UK politics.
The British Prime Minister’s stop in Mumbai is not just symbolic—it’s strategic. As India continues to rise as a global economic power, the UK aims to position itself as a strong and reliable partner in innovation, green energy, and digital transformation.
Starmer is expected to attend a business roundtable hosted by the UK-India Business Council and visit some cultural landmarks, including the Gateway of India. His visit comes at a time when both nations are looking to expand cooperation post-Brexit and reinforce shared democratic values on the global stage.
