British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has received the esteemed ‘Living Bridge’ award, recognizing his vital contributions to enhancing India-UK relations and successfully finalizing the long-anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The award was presented during a ceremony at the House of Lords in London on September 23, 2025, honoring individuals and organizations that play a significant role in strengthening bilateral connections. Seema Malhotra, Britain’s Indian-origin Minister for the Indo-Pacific in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), accepted the award on Starmer’s behalf.
What Is the ‘Living Bridge’ Honour?
Each year, the India Business Group (IBG) hosts the Living Bridge Awards to honour those who act as living bridges between India and the UK and support deepening Indian-UK collaboration in trade, education, culture and diplomacy. This year marks the fourth year of the awards.
The India-UK FTA: A Landmark in Bilateral Trade
The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK, popularly known as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), is a significant diplomatic and economic event. After rounds of distinctive, complex negotiations, the agreement was concluded under PM Starmer’s government and is scheduled to undergo the UK parliamentary ratification process in 2026.
Key highlights of the FTA include,
• Aims towards doubling bilateral trade to USD 120 billion by 2030
• Provides greater market access, reduces tariff barriers and enhances investment flows
• Includes coverage in pharmaceuticals, textiles, fintech, education, legal services, artificial intelligence, and sustainability
• Promotes mutual recognition of standards to protect businesses and promote more predictability
A Downing Street spokesperson said that: “the FTA “will help businesses trade with India with confidence and security” to which made India attractive due to its complementarian economic profile and rapid growth, the two economies can achieve mutual prosperity.”
