Mumbai, India – UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that the issue of India's purchase of Russian oil was a topic of discussion during his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting took place in Mumbai at Raj Bhavan, a state residence, during Starmer's trade mission to India.
Starmer indicated that discussions with Modi included moving India away from its reliance on fossil fuels. When questioned by journalists at a press conference about whether he directly addressed the matter of India's Russian oil imports with Modi, Starmer responded affirmatively. "Yes, we did discuss that this morning with President Modi, and we each went through the steps we're taking to bring about a resolution of the conflict," he stated.
India's continued purchase of Russian oil has been a point of contention as Western nations increase sanctions aimed at crippling Russia's war efforts in Ukraine. Modi has described himself as a friend of Russian President Vladimir Putin, a stance that contrasts with Starmer's strong condemnation of the invasion.
Starmer emphasized the UK's focus on the "shadow fleet" and its leadership in a coalition to combat it. This shadow fleet is reportedly used by Moscow to illicitly sell oil and gas globally, evading sanctions.
Despite differing views on the Russia-Ukraine war, both leaders hailed the recently signed UK-India trade deal, emphasizing its transformative potential. The trade agreement, finalized in July, aims to reduce tariffs on various goods and increase market access for businesses, with the goal of boosting trade by an additional 25.5 billion pounds ($34 billion) by 2040.
Modi stated that Starmer's visit "reflects the new energy and broad vision" in the partnership between the two nations. In a move towards closer defense ties, the UK announced a 350 million pound ($465 million) contract to supply the Indian army with lightweight multi-role missiles. The next phase of the deal includes collaboration on electric-powered engines for naval ships.
The UK has stated that it respects India's strategic independence and is willing to collaborate even when views diverge. Starmer joked that he would not be wishing Putin a happy birthday, referencing Britain's support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia. Starmer said that they looked particularly at ways to end the Russia-Ukraine war, which he said was “the outcome that we both want”.
In August, India's External Affairs Ministry asserted that the country would take necessary measures to protect its national interests and economic security, following criticism and tariffs from the US and EU regarding its purchase of Russian oil.
