Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on a strategically significant two-nation tour to the United Kingdom and the Maldives from July 23 to 26.
The prime minister's visit to both nations is aimed at strengthening India’s diplomatic ties through key trade deals and political engagements.
While the first leg of PM Modi's journey will be to the United Kingdom on July 23-24, where he will sign the landmark India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the second leg will mark his first visit to the Maldives since the bilateral ties nosedived.
India-UK Free Trade Agreement
Back in May 2025, India and the United Kingdom signed a historic free trade agreement following a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Keir Starmer.
As per media reports, the deal primarily emphasises on lowering tariffs on goods such as whisky, advanced manufacturing parts and food products such as lamb, salmon, chocolates and biscuits. It also agrees to quotas on both sides for auto imports.
Both leaders agreed that the landmark agreements between the two big and open-market economies of the world will open new opportunities for businesses, strengthen economic linkages and deepen people-to-people ties.
Terming the deal a "historic milestone", PM Modi exuded hope on his X post, saying that the move would further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations.
“Delighted to speak with my friend PM . In a historic milestone, India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, along with a Double Contribution Convention. These landmark agreements will further deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both our economies. I look forward to welcoming PM Starmer to India soon,” posted PM Narendra Modi.
Echoing similar sentiments, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also said, "Today Britain has agreed a landmark trade deal with India. Fantastic news for British business, British workers, and British shoppers, delivering on our Plan for Change. Good to speak to Prime Minister as we mark this historic moment."
Modi To Visit Maldives
During the second leg of the two-nation tour, the prime minister will visit the Maldives on July 25–26, where he will attend the 60th National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest.
This will be his first visit to the Maldives under President Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, and also the first since recent strains in bilateral ties with the island nation owing to the 'India Out' campaign led by some Maldivian leaders and the current regime’s pro-China stance.
During the visit, the focus is expected to be on rebuilding trust and establishing a more robust partnership, crucial for regional stability and India's strategic interests.
