PM Starmer arrives in India with largest-ever UK business delegation

New Delhi: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in India on Tuesday, leading the largest-ever UK business delegation to the country, as London seeks to strengthen trade and investment ties with one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

The two-day visit, Starmer’s first official trip to India since taking office, follows the signing of the UK–India Free Trade Agreement earlier this year — a landmark deal aimed at boosting commerce, innovation, and economic collaboration across sectors.

Starmer, accompanied by more than 100 business leaders, investors, and academics, said the visit represents “a new era of partnership” built on shared ambition and mutual opportunity. “This is not just about trade figures — it’s about creating the jobs, skills, and technologies that will shape the future,” he said ahead of his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Talks between the two leaders are expected to focus on trade implementation, technology transfer, renewable energy, education, and defence cooperation. Starmer will also address a fintech and innovation forum in Mumbai, underscoring Britain’s interest in India’s expanding digital economy.

The visit, described by officials as a “mission to deliver growth”, highlights Britain’s post-Brexit drive to deepen economic engagement with emerging markets. The Free Trade Agreement, signed in July, reduces tariffs on whisky, textiles, medical devices, and automotive parts while opening new opportunities for investments in green energy, artificial intelligence, and healthcare.

Starmer has ruled out any expansion of visa access for Indian professionals, stating that the trade pact already ensures balanced mobility and collaboration frameworks.