PM Modi’s London visit concludes with historic $120 billion trade deal; India takes a strong stand on Gaza crisis, calling for permanent ceasefire and two-state solution at UN
New Delhi / London / New York (Economy india): India’s global diplomatic profile reached new heights today as two major international developments unfolded: a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom, and a bold humanitarian stance at the United Nations regarding the ongoing Gaza conflict.
🇮🇳🇬🇧 India–UK Free Trade Agreement: A New Era of Economic Cooperation
In London, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed the long-awaited India–UK Free Trade Agreement, aiming to triple bilateral trade to $120 billion by 2030. The deal has been in negotiation for several years and now marks one of the most ambitious economic partnerships ever signed by either nation.
- Zero Tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK, including textiles, pharma, and IT services.
- Gradual tariff reduction on UK whisky imports from 150% to 40% over 10 years.
- UK car exports to India to be allowed at reduced tariffs (from 100% to 10%) under a quota system.
- Simplified visa norms for professionals, students, and researchers.
- Enhanced mutual access to public procurement markets.
This deal is expected to generate over £4.8 billion in annual trade benefits for the UK, while enabling Indian exporters to expand their global footprint in sectors such as automotive parts, electronics, and processed food.
- Boosts India’s “Make in India” and export-led growth.
- Strengthens UK’s post-Brexit trade strategy.
- Deepens cooperation on climate, defense, and digital technology.
🇺🇳 India at the United Nations: A Voice for Peace in Gaza
Simultaneously, India took center stage at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) by delivering a powerful address urging a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, protection of civilians, and release of hostages.
India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, stated:
“Intermittent pauses are not enough. There must be a permanent ceasefire and a return to peace through dialogue.”
India reiterated its support for:
- Two-State Solution based on 1967 borders.
- Uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza.
- Immediate release of hostages held by armed groups.
- An inclusive political framework in Palestine.
India also backed the upcoming New York Peace Conference (July 28–29), where global powers will deliberate on a roadmap for sustained peace in the Middle East.
🌍 Global Reactions and Broader Context
📌 Bogota Summit: Global Condemnation of Gaza Violence
In Colombia, 32 nations including Brazil, South Africa, and Indonesia condemned Israel’s ongoing actions in Gaza and pledged to halt arms and fuel exports. They also demanded international investigations into alleged war crimes.
📌 India-Pakistan Dialogue Resumes
Following the May 2025 back-channel agreement, India and Pakistan have resumed formal dialogue with mediation from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Nepal. Key topics include:
- Restoration of trade and travel.
- LoC ceasefire enforcement.
- Cooperation on cross-border terrorism.
📌 India’s Strategic Strikes in Myanmar
On July 13, Indian drones allegedly struck insurgent camps of ULFA-I and NSCN-K across the Myanmar border. Though the Indian Army remains silent, intelligence sources confirm the operation aimed to neutralize cross-border threats ahead of the Northeast state elections.
🗓️ Upcoming International Engagements
| Event | Date | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| New York Peace Conference | July 28–29, 2025 | Roadmap to two-state solution for Gaza |
| UK Parliamentary Approval | Next 12 Months | Legal ratification of India–UK FTA |
| UNSC Follow-up Session | August 2025 | Global ceasefire and aid coordination |
India’s twin achievements today reflect its growing stature as a responsible economic and diplomatic power. With the India–UK FTA, the country strengthens its position as a global trade hub. At the UN, India’s call for peace, humanitarian justice, and pragmatic diplomacy in Gaza highlights its balanced and principled approach to international crises.
(Economy India)
