Starmer leaves India-UK relations on strong footing for next UK PM, say experts

Business To Business, London, 22^nd June, 2026:  British Indian experts have said that Keir Starmer leaves behind a strong foundation in relations between the United Kingdom and India, highlighted by the successful conclusion of the long-negotiated Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Starmer's resignation has triggered a leadership contest within the Labour Party, with Andy Burnham emerging as a leading candidate to succeed him at 10 Downing Street.
Among those assessing Starmer's legacy was Karan Bilimoria, who noted the significance of the India–UK trade pact.
Bilimoria said that it was under Starmer's premiership that the India–UK Free Trade Agreement was finally signed, bringing to fruition negotiations that began in January 2022.
The agreement is regarded as one of the most important economic partnerships for both countries in recent years, aiming to boost bilateral trade, investment, services, and business mobility. Supporters of the deal argue that it strengthens strategic ties while opening new opportunities for companies and professionals in both markets.
Experts believe that regardless of who succeeds Starmer, the relationship between India and the UK is now on a solid footing, with strong cooperation across trade, technology, education, defence, clean energy, and people-to-people links.
The incoming British prime minister is expected to inherit a bilateral partnership that has gained momentum and enjoys broad support across political and business circles in both countries.