Keir Starmer has raised concerns with India’s Prime Minister regarding the purchase of Russian oil, which is being used to fund Russia’s aggressive invasion of Ukraine.

During a meeting held in Mumbai, the Prime Minister and Narendra Modi discussed the contentious issue, with Starmer emphasizing the need to address the conflict resolution steps being taken.

India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil, despite international pressure, has resulted in penalty tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump.

Starmer confirmed that the topic of India’s oil purchase from Russia was part of the discussions with Modi, highlighting efforts to address the conflict and the focus on disrupting the Russian shadow fleet.

Additionally, Starmer brought up the case of Jagtar Singh Johal, a British Sikh activist held in an Indian prison for nearly eight years without a conviction. He pledged to continue raising such consular cases whenever possible.

In response, Gurpreet, Jagtar’s brother, expressed disappointment at the lack of progress and detailed plans regarding Jagtar’s case, hoping that the Prime Minister’s intervention would lead to tangible actions for his brother’s release.

Despite differences over the Ukraine conflict and Russian relations, the Prime Minister emphasized the strong ties between India and the UK, citing the new trade deal signed recently and the growing opportunities for British businesses in India.

The Prime Minister highlighted the potential for partnership between the UK and India, emphasizing India’s status as the world’s largest democracy and a rising economic powerhouse set to become the third-largest economy by 2028.

The visit concluded with discussions on new Bollywood collaborations in the UK, underscoring the potential for further economic cooperation and cultural exchange between the two nations.