Against the backdrop of the historic Chequers estate, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a significant "Chai pe Charcha" on Thursday, July 24, 2025, marking a new chapter in India-UK relations with the unveiling of the ambitious "India-UK Vision 2035". This meeting not only solidified the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations but also paved the way for enhanced cooperation across various sectors.

The centerpiece of this renewed partnership is the landmark Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which promises to significantly boost bilateral trade, investment, and job creation in both economies. The FTA will eliminate tariffs on approximately 99% of tariff lines, covering nearly 100% of the trade value. British firms dealing in whisky, cars and other products destined for India will also benefit from a simplified export process. Indian farmers will also gain market access for high-value products such as vegetables, fruits, basmati rice, cereals, animal products, beverages, oilseeds and dairy. Complementing this trade agreement is the "India-UK Vision 2035", a strategic roadmap that outlines clear goals and milestones for the next decade. This vision aims to anchor the bilateral partnership in strategic outcomes, moving beyond short-term commercial objectives.

The "India-UK Vision 2035" encompasses several key pillars designed to drive transformative opportunities and tangible benefits for both countries. These include:

• Economy and Growth: The CETA is at the heart of future growth plans, with both governments committing to its implementation through dedicated mechanisms. Discussions on a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) are also being advanced.
• Technology: The Technology and Security Initiative (TSI) completed one year and will see accelerated implementation focusing on telecom, critical minerals, AI, biotechnology and health technology, semiconductors, advanced materials and quantum.
• Defense and Security: A 10-year Defence Industrial Roadmap will promote collaboration in co-design, co-development, and co-production of defense products. Deeper collaboration will occur in areas like jet engine technologies, maritime security, underwater systems, and direct energy weapons.
• Climate Action: Both countries will accelerate joint efforts to tackle climate change.
• Education: Six UK universities are working to open campuses in India under the New Education Policy (NEP).

During their meeting, the two Prime Ministers addressed critical issues such as counter-terrorism and economic offenses. Both leaders affirmed their united stance against terrorism, emphasizing that there should be no double standards in combating it. Modi thanked the British government for condemning the Pahalgam terror attack. Regarding economic offenders, Modi stated that agencies from both sides would continue to cooperate closely on extradition matters.

Furthermore, Modi highlighted the potential for greater interaction between GIFT City in Gujarat, India's first international financial services center, and the UK's financial ecosystem. The leaders also welcomed the finalization of a Defence Industrial Roadmap to promote collaboration in co-design, co-development and co-production of defence products.

The "Chai pe Charcha" at Chequers and the subsequent signing of the CETA and unveiling of "Vision 2035" signal a deepening and broadening of India-UK relations. This enhanced partnership is poised to unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and collaboration, contributing to a more secure and prosperous future for both nations. The annual review of the "India-UK Vision 2035" by the External Affairs Minister of India and the Foreign Secretary of the UK will ensure that the partnership remains dynamic and aligned with shared strategic interests.