PM Modi Receives Spectacular Bihu Welcome in London, Strengthening India-UK Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent official visit to London began with a vibrant and heartwarming display of India’s rich cultural heritage. A UK-based Assamese group extended a grand PM Modi Bihu welcome, performing the traditional Bihu dance to honor his arrival. This cultural spectacle, organized by the Indian diaspora, served as a poignant representation of India’s diversity on a global stage, setting a positive tone for the Prime Minister’s crucial engagements in the UK.

The Significance of the PM Modi Bihu Welcome

• Cultural Diplomacy in Action: The Bihu dance performance was more than just a welcome; it was a powerful act of cultural diplomacy. It showcased the deep-rooted traditions of Assam and, by extension, India, demonstrating the nation’s soft power and its ability to connect with people through shared cultural experiences.
• Pride of the Diaspora: For the Assamese community residing in the UK, the opportunity to present their traditional dance in front of the Prime Minister was a moment of immense pride. Madhusmita Borgohain, a performer who has lived in the UK for 12 years, expressed, “It’s a proud moment to perform Bihu in front of the Prime Minister.” Similarly, Chinu Kishore, another group member with 22 years of UK residency, highlighted their honor in presenting their culture and extending a warm PM Modi Bihu welcome.
• Celebrating Indian Heritage Abroad: Such cultural initiatives by the Indian diaspora play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Indian heritage globally. They also foster a sense of community and belonging among Indians living abroad, reinforcing their ties to their homeland.

Strengthening the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Modi’s visit, which commenced in London as the first leg of his two-nation tour, is primarily focused on bolstering the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The discussions are anticipated to cover significant progress on the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and cooperation across vital sectors.

• Key Areas of Collaboration: In a pre-departure statement, the Prime Minister emphasized the expanding collaboration between India and the UK. This includes crucial areas such as trade, innovation, defense, education, health, and strengthening people-to-people ties. The PM Modi Bihu welcome underscored the vibrant human connections that underpin these strategic partnerships.
• High-Level Engagements: During his stay in London, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold meetings with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He will also have the honor of calling on King Charles III, signifying the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations.
• Building on Past Visits: This marks Prime Minister Modi’s fourth visit to the United Kingdom as Prime Minister, following previous visits in 2015, 2018, and during the COP26 summit in 2021. Each visit has contributed to deepening the bilateral relationship.

Economic Aspirations and Future Outlook

Both India and the UK have set ambitious targets for their economic relationship, aiming to significantly increase bilateral trade in the coming years.

• Bilateral Trade Target: A key economic goal is to elevate bilateral trade to an impressive USD 120 billion by the year 2030. This target reflects the immense potential for economic growth and collaboration between the two nations. The positive atmosphere created by the PM Modi Bihu welcome can contribute to fostering goodwill and smoother negotiations.
• Forward Movement on FTA: The discussions surrounding the Free Trade Agreement are critical. A successful FTA could unlock new opportunities for businesses, create jobs, and foster greater economic integration between India and the UK.
• Next Leg of the Tour: Following his engagements in London, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to proceed to the Maldives for the second leg of his tour, continuing his diplomatic efforts to strengthen international partnerships.

The grand PM Modi Bihu welcome in London was a testament to the strong cultural bonds and mutual respect between India and the UK. It not only celebrated Assam’s unique heritage but also symbolized the robust and evolving strategic partnership between the two nations, setting a promising agenda for future collaborations across various sectors.