New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday embarked on a two-nation visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives, expressing confidence that the trip will lead to tangible outcomes and further strengthen India’s bilateral ties with both nations.
PM Modi’s visit to the UK, scheduled for July 23 to 24, comes at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and marks his fourth trip to the country.
“India and UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defense, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties,” Modi said in his departure statement.
During the visit, he is expected to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Starmer to explore ways to deepen economic ties that promote prosperity, growth, and job creation in both countries. He will also call on King Charles III.
In the second leg of the tour, Modi will travel to the Maldives from July 25 to 26 on a State Visit at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. This will be his third visit to the Maldives and the first by a foreign head of state or government during President Muizzu’s tenure.
He will be the Guest of Honor at the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives on July 26. The visit also coincides with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives.
The trip underscores India’s commitment to its maritime neighbors under the ‘Neighborhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR.
The Prime Minister said he looks forward to discussions with President Muizzu and other Maldivian leaders to advance a joint vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, aimed at ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
“I am confident that the visit will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting our people and advancing our Neighborhood First Policy,” Modi said.