Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday began a significant two-nation diplomatic tour to the United Kingdom and the Maldives, a move aimed at reinforcing India’s strategic partnerships and strengthening regional cooperation, particularly within the framework of the Neighbourhood First Policy and the broader Indo-Pacific Vision.
In a detailed departure statement issued ahead of his travel, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the growing depth and scope of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UK, describing it as a dynamic relationship that has evolved remarkably in recent years.
“India and the United Kingdom share a strong and historic bond, now bolstered by collaboration in a vast array of sectors—ranging from trade and investment to technology, innovation, education, defence, sustainability, and healthcare,” he noted.
Strengthening Ties with the UK
PM Modi’s two-day official visit to the UK from July 23–24 comes at the invitation of newly-elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and marks Modi’s fourth visit to the country as head of the Indian government.
During his stay in London, Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with PM Starmer, aimed at giving further impetus to economic engagement, with a focus on fostering job creation, innovation ecosystems, and mutual prosperity.
This comes at a time when both nations are actively negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and are keen on expanding defence ties and clean energy cooperation.
“I look forward to a meaningful dialogue with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to explore new avenues of cooperation that will benefit both our peoples,” said PM Modi.
He also mentioned that he would be calling on His Majesty King Charles III, reinforcing the enduring India-UK ties at the highest level.
Strategic Engagement with the Maldives
The second leg of Prime Minister Modi’s journey takes him to the Maldives from July 25–26, following an invitation extended by President Mohamed Muizzu.
This visit is Modi’s third to the Maldives and holds historical significance, as he becomes the first foreign head of state to visit the island nation under President Muizzu’s administration.
Notably, Modi will attend the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives as the Guest of Honour on July 26, symbolising the strong diplomatic ties that date back to 1965. The event also marks 60 years of formal diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives.
Advancing Maritime and Regional Security
Ahead of his visit to Malé, PM Modi reiterated the importance of the Maldives in India’s regional strategy, particularly within the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). “I look forward to engaging with President Muizzu and other senior Maldivian leaders to advance our shared vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership,” he stated.
The visit is expected to focus on expanding cooperation in infrastructure, climate resilience, security, tourism, and blue economy initiatives, thereby ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indian Ocean region.
“The outcomes of this visit will be tangible, timely, and reflective of our deep-rooted people-to-people ties. I am confident that it will help us further realise the goals of our Neighbourhood First Policy and enhance maritime cooperation for the greater regional good,” said the Prime Minister.
The diplomatic engagements come at a pivotal time for India, as it continues to position itself as a responsible regional power and a global strategic partner to key nations.