In a major boost to India–UK relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Keir Starmer reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic, trade, and education partnerships during their meeting in Mumbai on Thursday. The two leaders jointly addressed the CEO Summit and the Global Fintech Fest, outlining their shared vision to accelerate growth in technology, finance, clean energy, and education under the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The discussions focused on creating jobs, attracting investment, and promoting skill-building and innovation between the two nations.

I wanted to write about this meeting because it marks an important moment in India–UK relations, blending economic ambition with educational and technological cooperation. As global economies shift towards sustainable and knowledge-driven growth, partnerships like this have the potential to reshape opportunities for both Indian youth and British industries.

For India, the agreement offers a platform to strengthen trade access, boost exports, and enhance research collaboration with UK universities. For the UK, it opens pathways to invest in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies while tapping into India’s rich pool of skilled professionals. Understanding the depth of this collaboration helps us see how diplomacy today is as much about knowledge exchange as it is about business deals.

A Renewed Economic Vision Under the India–UK Trade Pact

Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), signed in July 2025. The agreement represents a new era in India–UK cooperation, focused not only on expanding trade but also on building long-term partnerships in emerging sectors.

Starmer, who is on his first official visit to India as Prime Minister, said during the event, “Our deal with India means more investment in the UK and thousands of new jobs across the country.” He noted that British firms are eager to expand operations in India, especially in technology, financial services, and green energy.

Modi echoed the sentiment, highlighting India’s focus on sustainable growth and innovation. He said the partnership reflects the shared values of both democracies — progress, opportunity, and trust. The leaders also agreed to facilitate faster approvals for joint ventures and ease regulatory frameworks to make cross-border investments smoother.

Strengthening Collaboration in Education and Skill Development

Education emerged as one of the strongest pillars of the India–UK dialogue. Both leaders emphasised the need to expand student and faculty exchanges, encourage dual-degree programmes, and enhance collaboration between universities.

India’s New Education Policy (NEP) has already paved the way for foreign universities to establish campuses in the country, and several UK institutions have expressed interest. The two nations are also working towards developing partnerships in research, innovation, and digital learning — areas that could bridge the skill gap and prepare students for global careers.

Prime Minister Starmer praised India’s education reforms, saying that they open up new opportunities for joint academic ventures. Meanwhile, Modi invited UK universities to collaborate on skill development projects under the Skill India Mission, especially in areas like AI, fintech, and renewable energy.

Driving Growth Through Trade, Tech, and Clean Energy

Beyond education, the two leaders laid out a roadmap for cooperation in sectors crucial to the global economy. Key areas of focus include:

• Technology and Innovation: Collaboration in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and fintech.
• Clean Energy: Joint research and investment in renewable energy, electric mobility, and sustainable manufacturing.
• Healthcare and Pharma: Expanding access to affordable healthcare solutions and boosting pharmaceutical exports.
• Financial Services: Strengthening cooperation in fintech and expanding operations through hubs like GIFT City in Gujarat.

The Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai provided the perfect setting for these discussions, as both nations pledged to promote start-ups, simplify trade rules, and encourage innovation-driven growth.

Job Creation and Economic Opportunities

The India–UK CETA is expected to open new job opportunities on both sides. For India, British investment in technology and manufacturing will generate skilled employment and boost exports. For the UK, access to India’s fast-growing markets will support its own industries in recovering from post-Brexit challenges.

According to government estimates, the trade pact could contribute billions to both economies over the next decade. It is also expected to create joint platforms for start-ups, research institutions, and small businesses to collaborate.