Modi Departs for Maldives After Completing UK Visit

Rapid Summary

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a two-day visit to the U.K. on July 24, 2025, marked by the signing of a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the U.K.
• Mr. Modi was hosted by U.K. Prime Minister keir Starmer at Chequers for discussions on regional and global issues of mutual interest, and also collaboration on defense, trade, security, technology, and education under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework.
• The leaders celebrated the newly inked FTA as a driver for growth across both countries.
• Before departing for Maldives for the second leg of his tour, Mr. Modi met King Charles III at Sandringham Estate in Norfolk and presented him with a symbolic handkerchief tree to promote his environmental initiative “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.”

Indian Opinion analysis
The signing of the India-U.K. Free Trade Agreement signifies significant economic progress and deepening bilateral ties between two globally influential democracies. The agreement is expected to enhance trade opportunities while fostering collaboration in key sectors like technology and defence-an aspect particularly crucial as both nations aim to bolster thier strategic partnerships amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.

Additionally, Prime Minister Modi’s environmental gesture toward King Charles III reflects India’s growing emphasis on climate diplomacy intertwined with cultural symbolism-a move that could further strengthen interpersonal ties with British leadership while promoting sustainability efforts globally.India’s proactive foreign policy stance through comprehensive engagement during this visit highlights it’s ambition to sustain long-term growth while strategically securing alliances within European markets.

Read More: The Hindu