MUMBAI — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi in Mumbai on Thursday, pledging to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, and defence as the two countries look to advance talks on a long-pending free trade agreement.

The meeting, held at the Raj Bhavan, came as Starmer led one of the largest British business delegations to India, aiming to attract investment and boost bilateral economic ties. The UK leader said he wanted the trade deal “enacted as soon as possible.”

India and the UK have been negotiating a comprehensive trade pact since 2022, but progress has been slow due to differences over tariffs, market access, and mobility rules. Starmer said his government was “committed to concluding a deal that works for both economies.”

During the visit, both sides highlighted growing collaboration in fintech, renewable energy, and digital innovation. Starmer also met Indian technology leaders to learn about the Aadhaar digital ID system and its role in India’s digital transformation.

Starmer’s two-day India visit coincides with the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai, where he is expected to deliver an address emphasizing the UK’s partnership with India in innovation and sustainable finance.

The trip marks Starmer’s first visit to India as prime minister and signals a renewed push to elevate the bilateral relationship beyond trade, focusing on strategic alignment in defence, investment, and technology.