Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed a delegation of Indian investors and CEOs to Downing Street to discuss opportunities for boosting investment, creating jobs, and advancing shared goals for economic growth between the UK and India.
The delegation was led by Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, which completed a major investment in the BT Group earlier this year. Other companies represented at the meeting included Bharat Semi Systems, Biocon Group, Blue Star Limited, Essar Group, Hero Enterprise, Jet Synthesis, Piramal Group, Reliance Industries, Tata Steel, TVS Motor Company, TVS Supply Chain Solutions, and UPL Limited.
This roundtable builds on commitments made by Prime Minister Starmer and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit, where they pledged to deepen collaboration under the UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The delegation, supported by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), engaged in discussions with key UK officials, including Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, and Minister of State Douglas Alexander. They explored opportunities under a potential UK-India trade deal, which aims to enhance a trade relationship already valued at £42 billion and supporting over 600,000 jobs across both economies.
Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the importance of India as a strategic partner, saying:
*”India is a vital partner for the UK, and we have huge ambition to unlock more opportunities together. I’m delighted to welcome some of India’s most senior business leaders to Downing Street and to outline the UK’s ambitious focus on economic growth and innovation.”*
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds highlighted the UK’s appeal as a global hub for Indian businesses:
*”As one of the most globally connected economies in the G20, the UK provides unmatched opportunities for Indian businesses to thrive. This Government is committed to deepening our trade and investment links with India even further.”*
Sunil Bharti Mittal KBE, leader of the delegation and Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, underscored the importance of the partnership, stating:
*”India-UK relations have evolved into a robust, multifaceted partnership built on historical ties, economic synergy, and increasing geopolitical alignment. The ongoing Free Trade Agreement negotiations present significant opportunities for mutual growth and cooperation.”*
The delegation concluded their tour with a reception hosted by the High Commission of India in London, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties and fostering future collaborations.
