PM Modi embarks on two-nation visit to UK and Maldives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday embarked on a two-nation visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives, with a focus on deepening strategic partnerships and regional cooperation.

In his departure statement, the Prime Minister said: “India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health, and people-to-people ties.”

The PM added that he will hold bilateral meetings with PM Keir Starmer to discuss further enhancement of the economic partnership, with the aim of fostering prosperity, growth, and job creation in both countries.

“I also look forward to calling on His Majesty King Charles III during the visit,” PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister’s visit to the UK from July 23–24 comes at the invitation of Starmer, marking his fourth trip to the country.

In the second leg of his tour, PM Modi will undertake a state visit to the Maldives from July 25–26 at the invitation of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu. This will be his third visit to the island nation and the first by any head of state or government during President Muizzu’s tenure.

Notably, PM Modi will be the Guest of Honour at the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations on July 26. This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Ahead of the visit, the Prime Minister said he looked forward to meeting President Muizzu and other political leaders of the Indian Ocean archipelago to advance the joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership and to deepen cooperation for peace, prosperity, and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

“I am confident that the visit will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting our people and advancing our Neighbourhood First Policy,” the PM said.