Just as the flight to India was about to depart, the captain amusingly mimicked the Commons Speaker to introduce a special guest, commanding “Order, order, order” to the passengers.
In a swift moment, Keir Starmer’s voice resonated throughout the British Airways aircraft as he addressed the travelers bound for Mumbai. “This is the Prime Minister speaking live from the cockpit,” he announced warmly.
Extending a cordial welcome to all aboard BA flight 9100 destined for Mumbai, Starmer expressed enthusiasm for the significant UK trade mission to India. Emphasizing the importance of the new free trade agreement, he conveyed his anticipation for collaboration and exploration of opportunities ahead.
The aircraft carried 125 prominent figures including CEOs, university vice-chancellors, and cultural leaders, all set for a mission to strengthen ties with the Indian government under Narendra Modi in Mumbai, the financial hub of India.
Starmer’s presence in the cockpit signaled his commitment to promoting British businesses and the UK-India trade agreement inked at Chequers, a contrast to Boris Johnson’s unsuccessful attempts to secure the deal previously promised.
Furthermore, the trip presented an essential chance for the UK government to mend relations with certain companies post the previous year’s budget tax adjustments that left a negative impact.
While Starmer aimed to bolster ties with Modi, the disparities in relations were evident, especially concerning Russia. Despite Starmer’s efforts to pressure Putin, India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil, utilized in funding the Ukrainian conflict, highlighted the diplomatic complexities.
During a private meeting lasting around 90 minutes at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai, Starmer directly addressed the oil issue with Modi. This concern was reiterated by Starmer during a press conference at the British Deputy High Commission upon concluding the two-day visit.
Modi reciprocated the goodwill by showcasing their journey to Mumbai’s Global Fintech Fest on social media, praising the growing vigor of the India-UK friendship. However, his warm birthday greetings to Putin a day prior showcased the enduring ties between India and Russia, a contrast to Starmer’s stance against the Russian President’s actions.
As the journey progressed, Starmer clarified to journalists that he refrained from sending birthday wishes to Putin and vehemently stated his stance against the Russian leader’s warmongering actions.
