Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed with a traditional Bihu dance performance by a UK-based Assamese group during his official visit to London. The cultural programme, organised by the Indian diaspora, aimed to honour his arrival and showcase India’s rich cultural heritage on a global platform.

Madhusmita Borgohain, one of the performers, said, “I am from Assam and have been living in the UK for 12 years. It’s a proud moment to perform Bihu in front of the Prime Minister.”

Chinu Kishore, another member of the dance group with 22 years of residency in the UK, said, “We are honoured to present our culture and welcome PM Modi through Assam’s traditional dance.”

Modi arrived in London on Wednesday as part of the first leg of his two-nation tour. The visit focuses on strengthening the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both nations expected to discuss progress on the proposed Free Trade Agreement and cooperation in key sectors.

In a pre-departure statement, the Prime Minister underscored the growing collaboration between India and the UK in areas including trade, innovation, defence, education, health, and people-to-people ties.

During his stay, Modi is scheduled to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and also call on King Charles III. This marks his fourth visit to the United Kingdom as Prime Minister, following previous visits in 2015, 2018, and during the COP26 summit in 2021.

India and the UK have set a target to increase bilateral trade to USD 120 billion by 2030. Following his engagements in London, the Prime Minister will proceed to the Maldives for the second leg of his tour.