Just moments before departure to India, the pilot playfully imitated the Commons Speaker to introduce a special guest to passengers, exclaiming, “Order, order, order.”
Shortly after, the voice of Keir Starmer resonated throughout the British Airways jet, announcing, “This is the Prime Minister speaking from the cockpit.”
Offering a warm welcome to all aboard BA flight 9100 bound for Mumbai, Starmer expressed enthusiasm for the largest trade mission the UK has ever dispatched to India, highlighting the potential within the new free trade agreement.
Emphasizing collaboration to seize the opportunities presented by the trade deal, Starmer assured passengers of further updates post-takeoff, setting the stage for fruitful engagement.
The flight to Mumbai accommodated 125 influential figures, including CEOs, university leaders, and cultural institution heads, uniting for a mission aimed at strengthening ties with India’s government under Narendra Modi.
Starmer’s presence in the cockpit underscored his commitment to promoting British businesses and the UK-India trade pact inked at Chequers, a deal that eluded Boris Johnson despite his assurances.
Furthermore, the trip served as a pivotal moment for the government to mend relations with some firms after discontent following last year’s Budget tax adjustments.
As Starmer landed in Mumbai for his inaugural visit to India, he was greeted with a reception akin to that afforded to A-list celebrities, with billboards featuring his and Modi’s faces adorning the city’s streets.
The visit showcased a vibrant display of musicians, dancers, and street performers clad in colorful attire, heralding Starmer’s convoy in stark contrast to the modest offerings of gingerbread and sparkling water extended to Modi during his visit to Chequers.
However, challenges loomed, notably in the UK’s stance on Russia, particularly concerning India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil, a point of contention as Starmer advocated for increased pressure on Putin.
Discussions during private meetings between Starmer and Modi, including at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai, underscored the UK’s focus on addressing issues like the Russian oil situation and leading international efforts against Russian aggression.
Modi reciprocated with public praise for Starmer, highlighting the growing vigor in the India-UK friendship, despite his concurrent acknowledgments of ties with Putin, emphasizing a delicate balancing act for India’s foreign relations.
Addressing reporters on the return journey, Starmer clarified his stance on Putin, affirming that he had not extended birthday greetings to the Russian leader and had no intentions of doing so, aligning with his firm position against Russian actions.
Overall, the visit marked a significant step in enhancing bilateral ties and navigating complex diplomatic waters, setting the stage for continued engagement and collaboration between India and the UK.