Just prior to departure for India, the pilot mimicked the Commons Speaker to introduce a special guest to passengers by exclaiming, “Order, order, order.”
Shortly after, Keir Starmer’s voice filled the British Airways aircraft, announcing, “This is the Prime Minister speaking live from the cockpit.”
Addressing all aboard BA flight 9100 bound for Mumbai, the Prime Minister expressed his enthusiasm for the significant UK trade mission to India. He highlighted the vast opportunities arising from the new free trade agreement between the two nations.
Accompanying the Prime Minister on the flight to Mumbai were 125 prominent figures, including CEOs, university vice-chancellors, and cultural leaders. They gathered for a photo opportunity with the PM before embarking on their mission to strengthen relations with the Indian government under Narendra Modi.
In emphasizing his support for British businesses and the UK-India trade deal inked at Chequers, the Prime Minister aimed to promote economic ties during the visit. This visit was crucial in repairing relations with certain companies following last year’s Budget tax adjustments that were poorly received.
The Prime Minister’s primary focus was on fostering a positive relationship with Modi, who ensured a warm reception for Starmer in India. The Indian state government of Maharashtra was directed to make Starmer feel welcomed, and they went to great lengths to do so.
Upon landing in Mumbai for his inaugural visit to India, Starmer was greeted with an enthusiastic welcome usually reserved for A-list celebrities. The city was adorned with thousands of billboards featuring Starmer and Modi, while musicians, dancers, and performers lined the streets to celebrate the occasion.
Despite the cordial relations, there are limitations to the relationship, particularly regarding Russia. While Starmer seeks to pressure Russian President Putin, India continues to purchase discounted Russian oil used to fund the invasion of Ukraine.
During a private meeting lasting about 90 minutes at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai, Starmer and Modi discussed the issue of Russian oil purchases. Starmer reiterated the focus on addressing the Russian shadow fleet and leading the coalition of nations willing to take action against Russia.
Modi shared an image of his journey with Starmer to Mumbai’s Global Fintech Fest, praising their growing friendship and the vigor of the India-UK relationship. However, Modi’s warm exchange with Putin on social media raised concerns, prompting Starmer to clarify that he had not sent birthday greetings to the Russian leader.
As Starmer addressed journalists on the return journey, he made it clear that he did not support Putin and had not conveyed birthday wishes to him.
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