Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer began their official bilateral meeting at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, on Wednesday. Starmer, who arrived in India earlier this week, was warmly received by Modi as the two leaders met to discuss key areas of cooperation between India and the United Kingdom.

The meeting, held in Maharashtra’s capital, marks the beginning of a crucial leg of Starmer’s India visit, during which both leaders are expected to discuss trade, technology, investment, and defense cooperation. It also comes amid ongoing efforts to finalize the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which has seen multiple rounds of negotiations.

This is Prime Minister Starmer’s first visit to India since taking office earlier this year. His delegation includes several British business leaders and policymakers, who are participating in a range of economic and cultural engagements aimed at strengthening ties with India.

The leaders are expected to issue a joint statement later today, highlighting the progress made during their meeting and outlining future areas of collaboration.