PM to Visit UK Next Week to Sign Trade Pact, First Trip to Maldives After Diplomatic Standoff

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a high-profile diplomatic tour next week, with scheduled visits to the United Kingdom and the Maldives. His itinerary underscores a significant moment in India’s foreign policy, marking a renewed momentum in both economic diplomacy and regional engagement.

The first leg of the trip will take the Prime Minister to London, where he is expected to sign a long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom. The deal, under negotiation since 2022, is poised to bolster bilateral trade, open new avenues for investment, and streamline regulatory barriers between the two countries. Officials suggest the FTA could be a game-changer, enhancing access for Indian goods and services to UK markets while also boosting British investments in sectors like defence, education, and green technology in India.

This visit to the UK will also include high-level meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, business leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora. Diplomatic sources highlight that both nations are looking to reset their relationship post-Brexit, with India seen as a pivotal trade partner in a changing global order.

Following the UK leg, the Prime Minister will head to the Maldives — his first visit since a sharp downturn in bilateral relations earlier this year following controversial remarks by Maldivian officials that triggered public outrage in India. The diplomatic chill had led to withdrawal of Indian military personnel and a cooling of strategic cooperation.

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Modi’s upcoming Maldives trip signals a thaw and a willingness to rebuild trust. He is expected to meet Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, with discussions likely to focus on maritime cooperation, regional security, and infrastructure projects. India is also anticipated to reaffirm its commitment to supporting Maldives’ economic resilience and climate goals.

The dual-nation tour, analysts believe, reflects New Delhi’s strategy to balance its global trade ambitions while restoring goodwill in its immediate neighbourhood. It comes at a time when India is increasingly seen as a vital player in global supply chains and regional stability.

The official schedule and delegation details are expected to be released in the coming days.