Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared "new energy" in India-UK relations following bilateral talks with British PM Keir Starmer in Mumbai. During Starmer's first India visit, both leaders discussed strengthening trade, technology cooperation, and strategic ties. Modi highlighted the historic Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed during his July UK visit. Starmer emphasized swift FTA implementation, calling it "the biggest deal we've struck since leaving the European Union" and potentially India's largest-ever agreement. The landmark UK-India FTA, signed in July 2024, aims to boost bilateral trade by £25.5 billion annually. Starmer arrived with over 100 business leaders, demonstrating commitment to the partnership's economic potential and strategic importance.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer countered Donald Trump's "dead economy" jibe by asserting India is on track to become the world's third-largest economy by 2028. Speaking alongside PM Modi, Starmer praised India's remarkable growth story, having recently surpassed Japan as the fourth-largest economy. The UK PM, beginning his speech in Hindi, emphasized Britain's desire to partner in India's development journey toward "Viksit Bharat" by 2047. Starmer arrived with over 100 CEOs, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders marking the largest UK delegation ever. Trump had previously called India a "dead economy" following trade tensions over Russian oil purchases, imposing 50% tariffs. India's 7.8% April-June growth effectively countered Trump's claims.

India welcomed the US-brokered Israel-Hamas peace deal facilitating hostage returns and phased Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Benjamin Netanyahu's "strong leadership," expressing hope the agreement would bring lasting peace to the war-torn region. The deal, confirmed by Trump and Netanyahu, aims to end the conflict that began with Hamas's October 7, 2023 offensive on Israeli border towns. Trump called it a "great day" for the Arab-Muslim world and Israel, while Netanyahu termed it a "diplomatic success" and "moral victory." The first phase involves Hamas releasing 47 hostages (alive and dead) in exchange for Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails, with Israeli troops withdrawing beyond agreed lines. (PC: Reuters & The Guardian)

India and UK trade ministers are developing a roadmap to implement their new Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The historic deal, signed in July, aims to significantly boost bilateral trade. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently led a delegation to "turbocharge" the agreement, which will see tariffs cut on goods like Scotch whisky and textiles. The FTA is projected to increase UK exports to India by nearly 60% and raise bilateral trade by over £25 billion annually, serving as a "launchpad for growth" for both economies.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Mumbai on Wednesday, lighting diyas to celebrate the shared culture and values between India and the UK ahead of Diwali. He was welcomed by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and Governor Acharya Devvrat. Starmer toured Yash Raj Films studios in Andheri with CEO Akshaye Widhani and actor Rani Mukerji to strengthen film industry collaboration. Leading a 125-member trade and cultural delegation, he will also meet Indian industry leaders and PM Narendra Modi to review the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, covering trade, technology, defence, and education.

A group of 19 US Congress members has urged President Donald Trump to immediately repair strained relations with India and reverse recent tariff hikes. Led by Congresswoman Deborah Ross and Congressman Ro Khanna, the lawmakers said tariffs on Indian goods, raised to 50 per cent, are harming both Indian manufacturers and American consumers. They warned that punitive duties could push India closer to China and Russia, threatening strategic and economic ties. Highlighting India’s role as a key trade and Indo-Pacific partner, the lawmakers called on Trump to reaffirm US commitment, stressing the importance of shared democratic values. (PC: India Today)

"Keir Starmer's India visit and the Free Trade Agreement mark a new era of collaboration," said Manish Tiwari, UK-based Indian-origin marketing guru. During his visit to India, PM Starmer engaged with business, cultural, and academic leaders, building on the India-UK Free Trade Agreement signed in July 2025.  In a symbolic gesture of goodwill, PM Modi presented a cricket bat signed by India's 2024 T20 World Cup-winning team to Bucks Cricket during the signing ceremony at Chequers Estate on July 24, 2025. The event was attended by both leaders. The bat was later auctioned for charity, with the proceeds earmarked for cricket coaching sessions for underprivileged children in Buckinghamshire. Manish Tiwari, founder of Here&Now365, a leading UK multicultural marketing consultancy, acquired the bat at the auction. Tiwari's acquisition not only supports grassroots cricket development but also symbolizes the enduring legacy of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement. "Playing with a straight bat - the Keir Starmer legacy of free trade, His leadership sets a precedent for future partnerships" He added.    

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer participated in a football showcase event in Mumbai on Wednesday. The event, organised by the English Premier League, took place at Cooperage football ground in south Mumbai. Starmer met young footballers and encouraged youth participation in the sport. Former England international Michael Owen also attended the event. The visit highlights sports diplomacy between the UK and India, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties. Starmer arrived from London earlier in the day and was seen interacting with local players and fans amid tight security. Officials said football can bring communities closer and inspire young talent. (PC: X)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced in Mumbai that Yash Raj Films will shoot three major Bollywood blockbusters in the UK from 2026. The productions will create over 3,000 jobs and add millions to Britain’s economy. Starmer said, “Bollywood is back in Britain, bringing jobs, investment and opportunity.” Yash Raj Films CEO Akshaye Widhani said it was special to reignite filming ties with the UK on the 30th anniversary of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. The announcement also includes a cooperation deal between the British Film Institute and India’s National Film Development Commission to boost co-productions. (PC: X)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer began his first official visit to India on October 8, calling it the “biggest trade mission ever.” Speaking in Mumbai, he said, “This is the biggest trade mission that the United Kingdom has ever sent to India... Obviously, this is a two-parter. We had Prime Minister Modi over to the United Kingdom earlier this year to sign the FTA that we agreed, and today is the return leg of that... That FTA is really important for us, it’s the biggest deal we’ve struck since we left the EU.” Both leaders will review the Vision 2035 roadmap.