PM Modi begins landmark bilateral European tour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for Europe on Saturday, launching a multi-nation tour of France and Slovakia designed to expand trade, boost technology sharing, and elevate India's geopolitical standing. The trip features high-level bilateral talks, tech exhibitions, and participation in the upcoming global economic forum. This diplomatic push aligns with India's long-term strategy of deepening its footprint in Central Europe, a region increasingly vital to New Delhi's supply chain diversification.

Strengthening Franco-Indian Tech Ties

Nice will serve as the first major stop, where the Indian leader joins French President Emmanuel Macron to inaugurate the 'Bharat Innovates' exhibition on June 14. Happening during the designated India-France Year of Innovation, this forum links top Indian startups directly with European venture capitalists. Later in the week, the bilateral agenda moves to Paris for VivaTech 2026, where India commands the largest national pavilion to display its expanding digital economy.

Historic Milestone in Bratislava

History will be made when the delegation lands in Bratislava, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited the Slovak Republic since its independence in 1993. Talks with President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico aim to secure fresh investments. Strengthening ties with Slovakia provides India with a stable manufacturing and logistics entry point into Central Europe, accelerating progress on the broader India-EU Free Trade Agreement.

Amplifying the Global South at G7

Evian will host the next phase of the tour as India joins the G7 Summit on June 16 and 17. Marking India's eighth consecutive invitation to the forum, the participation cements New Delhi's role as an indispensable global partner. Leadership plans to use this platform to advocate directly for the financial and developmental needs of developing countries.

PM MODI'S EUROPEAN ITINERARY (JUNE 2026)

Nice, France: June 14^th, Bharat Innovates Launch

Bratislava, Slovakia: June 14^th and 15^th, Historic Bilateral talks

Evian, France: June 16^th and 17^th, G7 Summit Advocasy

Paris, France: June 18^th, Viva Tech Expo

With Inputs from Agency Threads and Image Courtesy: ANI