UK-India ‘Alive with Opportunity’ showcase held aboard HMS Richmond in Mumbai

The United Kingdom hosted a flagship trade and investment reception, ‘Alive with Opportunity: A UK-India Partnership Celebration,’ onboard HMS Richmond at Mumbai Port on Friday, marking the visit of the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to India, reports 24brussels.

The reception highlighted how the UK and India’s free trade agreement (FTA) will facilitate cheaper, easier, and quicker business operations, unlocking new opportunities across sectors including manufacturing, defence, clean energy, and technology.

This event followed UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s first official visit to India, where he led the largest-ever UK trade delegation. The visit emphasized the substantial business prospects for UK and Indian firms arising from the historic FTA and the refreshed Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Vision 2035, established in July.

According to an official release, UK Minister for Investment Jason Stockwood and Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker attended the event after productive discussions with leading business representatives from both countries. Stockwood engaged with Indian firms to outline sector-specific partnerships under the FTA framework and potential investment and technology collaborations.

Lord Coaker participated in a Defence Capability showcase onboard HMS Richmond and met with India’s Raksha Rajya Mantri (Minister of State for Defence) Shri Sanjay Seth, discussing enhanced UK-India defence industrial cooperation aimed at fostering economic growth and job creation in both nations.

“Our landmark trade deal with India is already delivering for businesses in both countries with investment boosted across the board,” said Minister Stockwood. He expressed admiration for the entrepreneurial spirit he encountered, underscoring the robust ties established with Indian partners as both nations work to expand trade under their Plan for Change.

Lord Coaker remarked on the significance of his visit during a week that saw the UK-India partnership reach new heights, referencing the successful Exercise Konkan conducted by the UK Carrier Strike Group alongside the Indian Navy, led by the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. He stated, “We are now entering the era of defence co-production, which will provide mutual benefits to both countries. The various initiatives demonstrate the growing depth and trust in our relationship, crucial for promoting peace, security, and stability in an increasingly uncertain world.”

The reception followed the first-ever British and Indian Carrier Strike Group joint exercise, Exercise Konkan, earlier this week. Significant milestones in UK-India defence collaboration were also achieved, including a £350 million agreement for UK missiles for the Indian Army and a £250 million Implementing Arrangement to advance cooperation on electric-powered engines for naval vessels.

The ‘Alive with Opportunity’ reception was supported by various sponsors. The British Deputy High Commission in Mumbai expressed gratitude to platinum sponsor Premier League, gold partner HSBC India, and in-kind partner Diageo India, highlighting their contributions to the thriving UK-India business relationship.

Hrishikesh Shende, Managing Director of Premier League India, stated, “India is home to millions of football fans who passionately follow the Premier League, and we are delighted to support the ‘Alive with Opportunity’ showcase. The recent establishment of the Premier League office in Mumbai reflects our ongoing commitment to India.” He noted that the UK-India Free Trade Agreement would enhance business confidence and facilitate closer collaboration.

The event attracted over 400 attendees, including government officials, business leaders, investors, and cultural figures, all celebrating the expanding partnership between the UK and India across trade, investment, and defence cooperation.