Key Highlights:
Historic Trade Deal: India and UK to sign a landmark FTA, boosting bilateral trade.
Maldives Reset: Modi’s first visit since diplomatic strains, aims to reinforce ties.
Strategic Diplomacy: Trip underscores India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and global trade ambitions.
New Delhi, July 19, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi is gearing up for a crucial diplomatic mission, with a high-stakes visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives from July 23 to 26. The tour is set to solidify India’s economic and geopolitical footprint, featuring a historic trade pact with the UK and a much-anticipated reset in relations with the Maldives.
UK Leg: Sealing the Landmark FTA Deal
Kicking off his journey in London on July 23-24, PM Modi will finalize the long-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)—a deal poised to transform bilateral commerce. After three years of intense negotiations, the agreement is expected to slash tariffs on 99% of Indian exports, while opening doors for British products like Scotch whisky and automobiles in the Indian market.
Experts suggest the FTA could double trade volumes between the two nations, currently standing at $45 billion annually. Beyond economics, the pact is also anticipated to deepen defence and security cooperation, reinforcing the UK-India strategic partnership in an era of shifting global dynamics.
Maldives Visit: Thawing Tensions, Rebuilding Trust
From London, PM Modi will head to Malé on July 25-26, marking his first visit to the Maldives since diplomatic relations were strained under President Mohamed Muizzu’s pro-China stance and the controversial “India Out” campaign.
His presence as Chief Guest at the Maldives’ 60th National Day celebrations sends a strong signal of India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. The trip is seen as a critical step in mending ties, with discussions likely to focus on security collaboration, infrastructure projects, and regional stability in the Indian Ocean.
This visit follows President Muizzu’s ice-breaking trip to India in October 2024, where both leaders agreed to recalibrate relations. Analysts view Modi’s return engagement as a strategic move to counterbalance China’s influence in the archipelago.
Why This Visit Matters
- Economic Boost: The UK FTA could spur job growth and investment in key Indian sectors.
- Diplomatic Rebalancing: Maldives outreach aims to reclaim India’s foothold in a geopolitically vital region.
- Global Messaging: Modi’s dual-nation tour underscores India’s role as a rising economic and diplomatic power.
As the Prime Minister embarks on this pivotal journey, all eyes will be on whether these engagements translate into lasting partnerships—or face new geopolitical hurdles.
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