PM Modi’s 4-Day UK, Maldives Tour to Strengthen Ties
FTA signing, diplomatic reset in focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a four-day visit to the United Kingdom and Maldives on Wednesday, aiming to enhance India’s strategic partnerships. In the UK (July 23-24), Modi will sign the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a landmark deal to double bilateral trade to $120 billion by 2030, easing tariffs on 99% of Indian exports like textiles and enabling British goods like whisky and cars to enter India.
Discussions with PM Keir Starmer at Chequers and a meeting with King Charles III will also cover defence, technology, and climate cooperation, reinforcing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2021. Concerns over Khalistani extremism will be addressed, following a March 2025 incident involving a protester breaching security.
On July 25-26, Modi will visit the Maldives as the Guest of Honour for its 60th Independence Day, marking his third trip to the nation and the first under President Mohamed Muizzu. The visit, following Muizzu’s October 2024 trip to India, aims to mend ties strained by the “India Out” campaign and Muizzu’s pro-China stance. Modi will inaugurate India-backed projects and review the India-Maldives Joint Vision for Economic and Maritime Security, aligning with India’s Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR policies.
PM Modi expressed optimism about tangible outcomes, emphasizing prosperity, job creation, and regional stability. The visit, coinciding with the Monsoon Parliament session, has drawn Congress criticism for its timing.
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