British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has officially expressed support for India’s bid to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Following a significant meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai, Starmer stated, “We sit together in the Commonwealth and G20, and we want to see India taking its rightful place in the UN Security Council.” This backing was further cemented in a joint statement emphasizing shared goals of global peace, prosperity, and a rules-based international order. Both leaders committed to collaborating on multilateralism reform, specifically including the UNSC. The UK reiterated its long-standing commitment to India’s ambition for permanent membership in a restructured Security Council. This consistent support was confirmed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who welcomed the UK’s clear stance on India’s objective for a permanent UNSC position. Discussions also heavily focused on enhancing trade and investment, particularly the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed in July, which is currently undergoing ratification. Business communities in both nations expressed enthusiasm for the agreement’s full implementation, anticipating significant future investment and trade cooperation. A joint initiative to bolster the Climate Technology Startup Fund, supporting entrepreneurs in climate tech and AI, was announced, aligning with the FTA’s innovation chapter and the Technology Security Initiative. The vital role of technology and innovation in the bilateral relationship was underscored with new agreements on connectivity, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals for resilient supply chains and green technologies. Phase two of the UK-India Critical Minerals Supply Chain Observatory and a new satellite campus at IIT (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, are set to launch. Significant defense cooperation was also highlighted with a £350 million deal for air defence missiles and launchers, creating over 700 UK jobs and bolstering India’s defense capabilities. The UK Carrier Strike Group’s participation in joint exercises with the Indian Navy in the Indian Ocean further demonstrates deepening strategic ties. Both nations are committed to enhancing maritime security in the Indo-Pacific and countering terrorism, with a zero-tolerance approach to extremism and terror financing. Cultural exchanges, including a performance celebrating Indian and British artists, and increased film productions in the UK were also part of the visit, showcasing the vibrant people-to-people ties and economic synergy between the two nations.
