Starmer Hails India’s Growth Pushes Back at Trump’s Criticism:
In his first-ever visit to India, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed India’s economic surge, saying that the nation is solidly poised to emerge as the third-largest economy in the world by 2028. Standing alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Starmer’s words seemed like an open rebuttal of former US President Donald Trump’s previous characterisation of India as a “dead economy.”
Starmer’s remarks were made against the backdrop of deepening UK-India relations and reflected his intention to strengthen economic, trade, and cultural ties with India. “All that I have seen since I have been here is sheer evidence to me that you are on the path to success,” Starmer said, reiterating that he was committed to collaborating with India on its growth path.
India’s Economic Momentum Draws Global Recognition
India recently surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, reflecting its rapid post-pandemic recovery and resilient growth trajectory. Starmer, who began his speech by greeting the audience with “Namaskar doston,” praised Modi’s “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision to make India a developed nation by its 100th year of independence.
He also said, “I want to compliment the PM on his vision to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028. We wish to be partners in that quest.”
The symbolism of Starmer’s visit was not lost — he came to India with the largest-ever UK delegation of over 100 CEOs, entrepreneurs, university chancellors, and cultural leaders, marking London’s strategic emphasis on enhancing collaboration with New Delhi.
Trump’s “Dead Economy” Statement and India’s Refutation
Trump had, two months ago, caused outrage with remarks on India’s economy during a period of tension over New Delhi’s persistent import of Russian crude. Writing on Truth Social, Trump said, “I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care.”
The comment invited scathing criticism, particularly as Indian GDP growth reached 7.8% in the January–April quarter, one of the fastest among developed economies. Analysts and government officials cited this rate as evidence that India’s economy is still thriving and internationally competitive.
After the statement, India-US relations went through a temporary slump, especially after Washington levied a 25% extra tariff — totalling 50% — on some Indian exports as a form of punishment. Diplomatic relations have, however, continued to ease the situation since then, and cooperation has resumed on various fronts, such as defence, technology, and climate partnerships.
India-UK Free Trade Agreement Nears Completion
Starmer’s visit also arrives against the backdrop of the much-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which both countries are keen to seal. The proposed agreement has the UK cutting tariffs on Indian textiles, footwear, and food items, while India will provide cuts on British whisky, cosmetics, and medical equipment.
Experts opine that the FTA has the potential to increase bilateral trade by billions of dollars and act as a vital economic bridge after Brexit. For Britain, the agreement is a chance to diversify trade relations away from Europe, and for India, it solidifies its position in the international market.
UK Supports India’s UNSC Seat
As a significant diplomatic gesture, Starmer also lent his voice of support to India’s age-old application for a permanent position at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
“We sit together in the Commonwealth and in the G20, and we want to see India taking its rightful place in the UN Security Council,” Starmer stated.
His support puts the UK in line with other global powers like Russia, France, Germany, and the African Union, all of which have recently reaffirmed their support for India’s membership in the UNSC. The action is viewed as a nod to India’s enhanced global clout and leadership in international relations.
A Visit That Redefines Partnership
Starmer’s overtures represent a new era in UK-India relations, with a focus on collaboration beyond commerce — across education, green energy, defence technology, and people-to-people connections. His focus on collaboration over competition is a stark departure from Trump’s belligerent tone, highlighting the UK’s desire to be a part of India’s success story.
FAQs
Q1. What did Trump say about India’s economy?
Trump called India a “dead economy” while criticising its purchase of Russian oil, sparking strong reactions and counterpoints highlighting India’s robust growth.
Q2. Why is the UK PM’s visit significant?
Keir Starmer’s visit, with over 100 delegates, underscores the UK’s intent to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties with India through trade, education, and innovation partnerships.
Q3. What is the India-UK FTA about?
The FTA aims to reduce tariffs and boost bilateral trade by benefiting key sectors like textiles, whisky, cosmetics, and food products.
Q4. Has the UK supported India’s UNSC bid before?
Yes, but Starmer’s renewed endorsement carries extra weight as it aligns with global momentum supporting India’s permanent seat at the UNSC.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s trip to India is both a symbolic and strategic pushback against Trump‘s “dead economy” assertion. By expressing confidence in India’s growth and committing to partnership, the UK has become a principal partner in India’s quest to reach a $5 trillion economy and the world’s third-largest by 2028. The message is clear: India’s economy is not “dead” but alive, growing, and drawing global confidence.
