Keir Starmer has stated that he did not extend birthday wishes to Russian leader Vladimir Putin, in contrast to the warm greetings from India. Arriving in Mumbai for discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Starmer affirmed the UK’s commitment to increasing pressure on the Kremlin. This declaration coincided with Modi’s expression of goodwill towards Putin, despite ongoing Russian oil purchases amid the Ukraine conflict.
In an online post, Modi conveyed birthday felicitations to Putin, emphasizing their enduring friendship and Russia-India relations. On Putin’s 73rd birthday, Starmer clarified his stance, stating he had not sent any birthday wishes to the Russian president and had no intentions of doing so, highlighting the UK’s focus on the Shadow Fleet to counter Russian energy influence, in collaboration with other nations.
During his two-day visit to India to strengthen ties with Modi’s administration, Starmer pledged to advocate for British businesses. Accompanied by a delegation of 125 representatives from various sectors, including prominent companies like Rolls Royce, British Telecom, and British Airways, the visit aimed to build on a trade agreement signed earlier, projected to benefit the UK economy significantly.
Anticipating India’s rise as the world’s third-largest economy by 2028, Starmer emphasized the trade deal’s role as a catalyst for growth and job opportunities. The visit also signaled efforts to mend relations with businesses following tax decisions in the previous Budget, with Starmer championing British firms in Mumbai alongside the trade delegation.
As the Prime Minister embarked on his journey to India, British Airways announced plans for a new route between Delhi and Manchester, aligning with efforts to bolster economic ties between the UK and India. Business Secretary Peter Kyle and other officials accompanied Starmer on the trip, underscoring the UK’s commitment to expanding trade relations with India.
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