Thu Oct 09 04:33:56 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is visiting India to capitalize on the India-U.K. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed in July. Accompanied by a large delegation, Starmer is focused on boosting trade, defense, security, and film collaborations between the two nations. The FTA is expected to double bilateral trade by 2030.
**News Article:**
**India-U.K. Trade Ties Set to Soar as PM Starmer Embarks on Landmark Visit**
Mumbai, India – October 9, 2025 – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Mumbai on Wednesday for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening economic and cultural ties with India. This marks his first official visit to the country since assuming office.
Accompanied by a delegation of 100 entrepreneurs, cultural representatives, and university officials, Mr. Starmer is focused on leveraging the opportunities presented by the India-U.K. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed in July.
“The opportunities waiting to be seized under the India-U.K. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are unparalleled,” said Mr. Starmer, who deemed the agreement the “biggest deal” for both the UK since leaving the European Union, and for India overall.
During his visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extensive talks with his British counterpart, focusing on bolstering cooperation in trade, defense, security, and critical technology. The FTA is expected to significantly increase market access and reduce tariffs, with projections estimating a doubling of bilateral trade by 2030.
A highlight of the visit was the agreement between the British Film Institute (BFI) and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to boost film co-productions.
This visit underscores the growing importance of the India-U.K. relationship and the commitment of both nations to capitalize on the economic benefits offered by the recently signed FTA.