New Delhi: In a resounding endorsement of India’s meteoric rise, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared on Thursday that the nation is poised to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028, positioning the UK as a key ally in this transformative journey.
Speaking during a high-profile visit to Mumbai with a top-level delegation, Starmer’s words served as a sharp rebuttal to US President Donald Trump’s recent barb, where he dismissed India’s economy as “dead” amid escalating trade tensions.
“India is on track to be the third-largest economy by 2028, and the UK stands ready to partner in this exciting voyage,” Starmer affirmed, spotlighting opportunities in a prospective India-UK trade deal. He highlighted sectors like technology, life sciences, and renewable energy as gateways for Britain to amplify its global leadership. The leaders also pledged to deepen the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, fostering innovation and trust.
Starmer’s praise came against the backdrop of Trump’s frustration over India’s steadfast refusal to bow to a 50% US tariff on Russian oil imports. Unfazed, Trump had lashed out, stating he cared little for India’s dealings with Russia as long as it didn’t drag down its “dead economy” further — a one-sided swipe that India branded as unilateral overreach.
On the global stage, Starmer lauded Trump’s Israel-Hamas peace proposal as a “major achievement,” predicting relief for Gaza’s hostages, civilians, and the world at large. He urged swift implementation alongside partners, while discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched on ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict through a shared vision.
As billboards and boardrooms buzz with optimism, Starmer’s visit underscores a strengthening Indo-British bond, proving that India’s economic vitality is no ‘dead’ matter — it’s very much alive and roaring ahead.