NextFin news, On Thursday, October 9, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to the Raj Bhavan in Mumbai, marking Starmer's first visit to India since taking office. The visit, accompanied by the largest-ever UK business delegation, aims to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, defense, and technology.
Prime Minister Modi expressed enthusiasm about the visit, highlighting the strong potential of India-UK relations. He stated, "I am delighted to welcome my friend, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to the Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. This being his first visit to India, this is certainly a special occasion. The presence of the largest business delegation in India makes it even more special and reflects the strong potential of India-UK relations."
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Modi's vision for a developed India by 2047, calling it "inspiring and ambitious." Starmer congratulated Modi on his leadership and the target of making India the world's third-largest economy by 2028. He emphasized the UK's desire to be a partner in India's development journey and announced a new agreement to produce Bollywood films in Britain, alongside efforts to strengthen educational cooperation.
At a joint press conference, Starmer noted that India and the UK are global leaders in innovation and technology. Both countries agreed to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, advanced communications, and defense technologies. Modi recalled the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed during Starmer's July visit to London and said the current visit with the large business delegation demonstrates renewed energy and vision in the partnership.
Modi described India and the UK as "natural partners" based on shared democratic values such as freedom and the rule of law. He highlighted the India-UK Business Leaders’ Summit in Mumbai as the largest ever, bringing together CEOs and investors from both countries to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation.
The two leaders are also scheduled to address the India-UK CEO Forum and the Global Fintech Festival, which focus on fostering collaboration in finance, innovation, and digital transformation.
Delegation-level talks between Modi and Starmer are ongoing in Mumbai, covering trade, investment, defense cooperation, technology partnerships, and global challenges. These discussions are seen as a crucial step toward broadening economic and strategic ties between the two nations.
Sources: Oneindia, INVC News, One News Page (October 9, 2025)
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