PM Modi to visit UK, likely to sign FTA; first visit to Maldives after fallout
PTC News Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to undertake an important two-nation visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives from July 23 to 26, with the goal of strengthening India’s diplomatic and trade relations through key agreements and political discussions.
The tour will begin in the United Kingdom on July 23-24, where Prime Minister Modi is expected to sign the long-anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This landmark deal will reduce tariffs on 99 percent of Indian exports to the UK, while also easing the entry of British goods like whisky and automobiles into the Indian market.
The agreement comes after three years of intensive negotiations focused on expanding market access and fostering a mutually beneficial trade framework.
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement is anticipated to significantly expand the scope of bilateral trade and strengthen security cooperation between the two countries. By lowering trade barriers, both nations aim to establish a more comprehensive economic alliance, reinforcing their strategic and commercial ties.
Following his UK visit, Prime Minister Modi will travel to the Maldives from July 25 to 26, where he will be the Chief Guest at the country’s 60th National Day celebrations. This marks his first visit under the leadership of President Mohamed Muizzu and comes after recent tensions in the relationship, largely fueled by the "India Out" campaign led by some Maldivian leaders and the current government’s tilt toward China.
The visit is viewed as a crucial step toward addressing unresolved issues, enhancing bilateral cooperation, and reaffirming India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy in the Indian Ocean Region. The emphasis will be on rebuilding trust and forging a stronger partnership—key to ensuring regional security and advancing India’s strategic goals. Prime Minister Modi last visited the Maldives for a bilateral engagement in June 2019.
- With inputs from agencies
