Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun a six-day official visit to France and Slovakia, with a focus on strengthening trade relations, expanding strategic partnerships, and representing India at the upcoming G7 Summit. The visit highlights India’s growing diplomatic engagement with Europe and its expanding role in global governance discussions. Officials have described the tour as a key step in deepening cooperation across technology, investment, and cultural exchange.
During the France leg of the visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold high-level talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. Both leaders are expected to review progress made under the India-France “Special Global Strategic Partnership” and outline future areas of collaboration. Discussions are likely to include trade expansion, defense cooperation, climate initiatives, and emerging technologies, reflecting the increasingly multidimensional nature of the bilateral relationship.
A major highlight of the France itinerary includes participation in innovation-focused initiatives aimed at connecting Indian startups with European investors. Modi is also expected to attend events tied to the India-France Year of Innovation, including the inauguration of a platform designed to showcase Indian technological advancements. The initiative is intended to strengthen collaboration between India’s startup ecosystem and global capital markets, particularly in Europe.
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The Prime Minister will then travel to Slovakia, marking the first-ever official visit by an Indian head of government since the country’s independence in 1993. In Bratislava, Modi is scheduled to meet President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico for discussions on expanding bilateral trade, industrial cooperation, and investment opportunities. The visit is being seen as an effort to build stronger political and economic ties with Central Europe.
Following the bilateral engagements, Modi will proceed to Evian, France, to attend the G7 Summit, where India has been invited for the eighth consecutive time. The Prime Minister emphasized that India’s participation will not only reflect national priorities but also highlight the concerns and aspirations of the Global South. The summit is expected to address pressing global issues such as economic stability, energy security, and international cooperation amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
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