Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in London for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening ties between India and the United Kingdom. Announcing his arrival on social media, PM Modi said the visit would deepen the economic partnership between the two nations.
"The focus will be on driving prosperity, spurring growth, and creating jobs for our people. A robust India-UK friendship is vital for global progress," he noted.
Ahead of their bilateral meeting, Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised the anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement, calling it "a landmark deal" and "a major win for Britain."
PM Modi was received at the airport by Catherine West, the UK Foreign Office Minister responsible for the Indo-Pacific region. She was accompanied by Indian High Commissioner to the UK Vikram Doraiswami and British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron.
This marks Prime Minister Modi’s fourth visit to the UK since taking office, following trips in 2015, 2018, and the 2021 COP26 summit in Glasgow.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan welcomed the historic trade deal with India, calling it a “£310 million boost” for London’s economy that will create new business opportunities across the capital and the UK.
“With recent deals signed with the US and EU, there’s never been a better time to invest in London,” he said. “As the UK’s top destination for business growth, I’ll continue working with Ministers to build a fairer, more prosperous city for all Londoners.”
In a LinkedIn post, entrepreneur Alpesh Patel OBE said: “Not since the days of the British Empire have we had such access to the Indian market—this time, as equal partners.”
He hailed the UK-India Free Trade Agreement as a driver of high-paying jobs in Britain through increased Indian investment, which in turn boosts tax revenues and funds public services.
“This isn’t about corner shops or cheap labour, it’s about AI, cybersecurity, pharma, and vaccines,” he said. “Let’s hope the next Satya Nadella chooses the UK over the US.”
For British businesses, lower Indian tariffs on UK exports mean higher demand and profits, while consumers benefit from cheaper imports. “Britain’s future looks brighter with deeper ties to the world’s fastest-growing major economy,” Patel noted. “There are two Britains—Land of Hope and Glory, or the other one. You choose.”
In his departure statement, PM Modi highlighted the strong momentum in the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), established in 2021. “Our collaboration spans key sectors such as trade, investment, technology, defence, education, sustainability, and health,” he said.
Since the CSP’s launch, both nations have maintained regular high-level engagement and remain committed to deepening ties. The ongoing India-UK Free Trade Agreement aims to cut tariffs and enhance market access, with the potential to boost bilateral trade to $120 billion by 2030.
Receives warm welcome
Upon his arrival, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted by an enthusiastic Indian community, many of whom had travelled from across the UK to welcome him.
In a show of tradition and pride, around 15 buses arranged by the High Commission of India and Indian diaspora brought diaspora members to the venue. The vibrant welcome featured dhol, and cultural performances including Bharatanatyam, Garba, and more.
Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi shared a message on social media: “Touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in the UK. Their affection and passion for India’s progress is truly heartening.”
Speaking to Asian Voice, Kuldeep Shekhawat, President of the Overseas Friends of BJP UK, said,“Prime Minister Modi’s visit marks a historic moment as India and the UK move closer to signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This agreement will strengthen bilateral trade, making British products more affordable in India and vice versa.”
He added that despite tight security and a limited guest list due to the event being held outside London, around 1000 people attended. “Special buses were arranged by the High Commission and the Indian diaspora to bring people from London and across the UK. The atmosphere was electric, filled with cultural performances including dhol, dance, and drama, all by local artists.”
“The diaspora responded with great enthusiasm, chanting slogans like ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai,’ ‘Modi Modi,’ and ‘Jai Hind,’ creating a vibrant and patriotic environment,” he said.
One of the organising volunteers, Sushil Dokwal, who was part of the welcome committee for Prime Minister Modi’s UK visit, shared insights into the planning behind the event.
“The event was coordinated by the High Commission of India along with community organisations such as the Overseas Friends of BJP UK, Insight UK, and other diaspora groups,” he said. “A dedicated committee, led by Kuldeep Shekhawat, managed logistics, timings, and crowd control. I handled arrangements for the Wembley area.”
Around 1,200 people registered within two days, with 900- 1,000 receiving clearance under strict security protocols set by the Prime Minister’s Special Protection Group (SPG). To manage transport, 15 buses were arranged from across London, including three from Wembley. “We had 160 people from our area alone,” said Sushil.
Attendees underwent identity checks and were warned that entry wasn’t guaranteed due to security restrictions. “Only the drivers knew the exact venue location,” he explained. After thorough security screening, guests entered the enclosure for a vibrant cultural programme. “There were groups from Gujarat, Assam, Maharashtra; it was amazing to see such diversity.” As PM Modi walked past the crowd, the atmosphere was electric. “He was just two metres away, it was an unforgettable moment,” Sushil said. Despite multiple layers of security, Modi warmly acknowledged the crowd. “Phones weren’t allowed, but official photographers captured everything. People were dancing, celebrating, it felt like a true festival.” Return travel was smooth, with meals provided, wrapping up what Sushil described as “a day to remember for the UK’s Indian community.”
