‘INDIA’S RISE UNSTOPPABLE,’ SAYS BRITISH PM STARMER

alignment amid turbulence in India-US ties, Britain—Washington's closest ally—appears to be pursuing a more autonomous course, acknowledging India’s growing global centrality.

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Diplomats described the visit as “a success in both substance and symbolism,” with the UK premier leading a 125-member trade mission, the largest ever from Britain, encompassing business, academia, and culture.

Speaking at the India-UK CEO Forum in Mumbai, Starmer said everything he had seen “proved” that India is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028. “We want to be partners on that journey,” he said. He emphasised that CETA was “the most ambitious trade deal India has ever done,” adding that “beyond tariffs and barriers, it reflects confidence, intent, and shared ambition.” Since its signing in July 2025, the trade pact has already boosted bilateral trade and investment by £6 billion, officials said. The agreement is projected to expand trade by £25.5 billion by 2040, granting 99 per cent duty-free access for Indian exports to the UK and unlocking major opportunities across textiles, leather, engineering, and auto components.