Lagatar24 Desk
London: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in the United Kingdom for a two-day official visit, where strengthening strategic ties and accelerating progress on a long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Britain top the agenda. Modi was greeted with a warm welcome by the Indian diaspora in London, with the PM thanking them for their “affection and passion for India’s progress.”
FTA Talks, Extradition Push, and Meeting with Starmer
During his visit, PM Modi is set to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and top leaders to advance the stalled India-UK FTA, which has seen multiple negotiation rounds over the last two years. In his departure statement, Modi described the two countries’ ties as a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” that covers key sectors like defence, tech, education, and sustainability.
Another major item on the agenda is the extradition of Indian fugitives — Lalit Modi, Nirav Modi, and Vijay Mallya — all wanted for high-profile financial crimes. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that India will continue to press the UK to return these individuals, although all extradition proceedings are subject to the British legal system.
Khalistan Issue and Security Concerns in UK
PM Modi is also expected to raise India’s concern over the presence of Khalistani extremist groups operating in the UK. The Indian government views these elements as threats not just to India’s unity but also to Britain’s own internal social stability. Misri emphasized that New Delhi will continue to work with London to address this matter, which has previously triggered diplomatic tensions.
Other Engagements on Schedule
Modi is expected to meet King Charles III and hold sessions with top business leaders to explore investment opportunities. This marks his fourth UK visit as Prime Minister, having previously traveled in 2015, 2018, and 2021 (for COP26 in Glasgow). His recent interactions with Keir Starmer include meetings during the G20 Summit in Rio and the G7 gathering in Canada last month.
