Mumbai’s New Dawn: The ‘BRISK’ Era Redefines India–UK Relations
Historic Partnership Paves Way for Global Prosperity and Strategic Cooperation
Mumbai witnessed a vibrant diplomatic moment as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a packed global audience at the Global FinTech Fest, signaling the dawn of a transformative phase in India–UK relations. The event, more than ceremonial, marked the realization of the long-envisioned “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” — now taking shape under the guiding vision of “India–UK Vision 2035.”
A Milestone in Bilateral Diplomacy
The year 2025 represents a decisive turning point in India–UK ties. With centuries of shared history, the relationship has now matured into a structured, forward-looking strategic partnership. Following PM Modi’s visit to London in July, PM Starmer’s reciprocal India visit has injected fresh momentum into this alliance — one that promises tangible benefits for citizens on both sides.
As over 100,000 global delegates gathered in Mumbai, both leaders underscored a message of innovation, cooperation, and inclusivity. For India, this moment reaffirms its rise as a global democratic and economic power, while for the UK, it marks a reinvigorated partnership beyond the post-Brexit realignment.
CETA: Fueling Economic Expansion
At the heart of this renewed engagement lies the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), signed on 24 July 2025 after years of negotiation. The pact eliminates tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK — from textiles and leather goods to auto components and agri-products — giving Indian manufacturers a competitive edge in global markets.
The deal is projected to raise bilateral trade from £43 billion to £68.5 billion annually, and boost India’s GDP by £5.1 billion. By simplifying customs clearance within 48 hours, it offers vital relief to SMEs, a core focus of PM Modi’s Ease of Doing Business agenda. The agreement enjoys bipartisan support in the UK, ensuring its longevity and stability.
Strategic Depth in Defence and Security
Beyond economics, defence collaboration forms a strong pillar of the BRISK framework. The recent ‘KONKAN 2025’ naval exercise showcased operational synergy between INS Vikrant and the HMS Prince of Wales, reinforcing maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
The Defence Industrial Roadmap (July 2025) transitions India–UK ties from buyer-seller dynamics to co-development and joint production, aligning with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. This collaboration emphasizes technology transfer, joint R&D, and high-skill job creation, positioning India as a key global defence innovator.
People-to-People Bridges and Educational Diplomacy
Central to the BRISK vision is the enduring “Living Bridge” of over 1.8 million Indian-origin citizens in the UK — a community that drives over 65,000 enterprises. The mutual recognition of higher education qualifications and the launch of University of Southampton’s Gurugram campus symbolize the deepening educational and cultural connection. The Green Skills Partnership further strengthens collaboration in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate resilience.
Technology, FinTech, and Shared Innovation
The Global FinTech Fest served as a showcase of India’s leadership in digital payments and financial inclusion, areas that complement the UK’s financial ecosystem. Both nations announced the Technology Security Initiative, focusing on AI, telecom resilience, and semiconductor supply chains, alongside joint investments in green finance and clean energy — supported by companies like BP and Shell.
This forward-looking cooperation reflects PM Modi’s vision of harmonizing economic growth with sustainability, positioning India–UK collaboration as a model for global partnerships.
A Reimagined Global Order
In their joint address, PM Modi and PM Starmer highlighted shared values of mutual respect, innovation, and inclusive growth. Under Modi’s strategic leadership, the partnership is not merely revitalized — it is redefined for a new world order, poised to drive prosperity, security, and global stability for decades to come.