UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer landed in Mumbai early Wednesday for a two-day visit. He brought a 125-member delegation, including CEOs, industry leaders, and representatives from British universities and institutes. The trip aims to promote the new UK‑India Free Trade Agreement.

At Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Starmer was welcomed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and Maharashtra Governor Acharya.

Before the visit, Starmer made it clear that the UK will not relax visa rules for India. He said, “The issue is not about visas.” Instead, he emphasized business-to-business engagement, investment, jobs, and prosperity coming into the United Kingdom.

Trade Deal in Focus

Starmer will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday to discuss the UK‑India Free Trade Agreement. The deal will make UK cars and whisky cheaper to export to India. It will also reduce tariffs on Indian textiles and jewellery entering the UK. In addition, it provides a three-year exemption on social security for Indian employees working in the UK on short-term visas. Ministers confirmed there are no broader changes to immigration policy. The deal does not create new visa routes for Indian workers or students.

Business and Connectivity

Starmer repeated that visa changes are not part of the deal. The UK seeks top global talent, but it will not adjust visas for India specifically. British Airways announced a third daily flight between Delhi and Heathrow next year. Moreover, Manchester Airport will start a direct flight to Delhi, boosting travel and business links.

Geopolitical Focus

Starmer said the UK will tackle Russia’s “shadow fleet” of unregulated oil tankers. However, he avoided direct comments on India’s purchase of Russian oil. He added that the UK has been “one of the lead countries” addressing the issue, showing its role in global energy security.

Overall, Starmer’s visit highlights the UK’s goal to boost trade, investment, and strategic relations with India. Consequently, the trade deal promises mutual economic benefits, while new flights and business initiatives strengthen ties between the two nations.