Starmer Hails UK-India Trade Deal As 'Launchpad' After Meeting Modi. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has praised the UK-India trade deal as a “launchpad” for closer economic and business ties after meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai. Starmer is leading the UK’s largest-ever trade delegation, including over 100 CEOs, entrepreneurs, university vice-chancellors, and cultural leaders. The two leaders discussed ways to expand trade after the landmark deal signed in July which Starmer described as “huge” for the UK and “the most ambitious trade deal India has ever done.” He highlighted opportunities for British leadership in tech, life sciences, renewable energy, and more, citing India’s position as the world’s largest democracy, set to become the third-largest economy by 2028. Other issues on the agenda included the war in Ukraine. Starmer confirmed he raised India’s continued purchase of Russian fossil fuels, stressing the importance of working towards a resolution. Modi emphasised ending the conflict through “dialogue and diplomacy” while maintaining his friendship with Vladimir Putin. [Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT]