Key Facts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a nearly week-long visit to France and Slovakia on June 13, 2026, to attend the G7 Summit and hold bilateral consultations. The visit, spanning June 13-18, will see Modi travel between the two European nations, focusing on defence, security, trade, technology, and the concerns of the Global South.
Details of the Visit
Modi began his journey on Saturday, stating that France 'occupies a special place in India's strategic vision.' He will hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice on Sunday to review progress since the elevation of ties to a special global strategic partnership in February. The two leaders will jointly inaugurate 'Bharat Innovates' in Nice, an event under the India-France Year of Innovation aimed at connecting Indian startups with global investment.
From Nice, Modi will travel to Slovakia (June 14-15) for talks with President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava. This is the first visit by an Indian premier since Slovakia's independence in 1993. Modi will also interact with Slovak business leaders, emphasizing the momentum of the India-EU free trade agreement expected to be signed by year-end.
Returning to France, Modi will participate in outreach sessions of the G7 Summit in Evian (June 16-17). India has been invited along with Brazil, Egypt, Kenya, and South Korea. France's priorities for the summit include reducing macro-economic imbalances, renewing international partnerships, strengthening critical mineral value chains, protecting minors online, and addressing geopolitical crises.
Impact and Significance
Modi's presence at the G7 reflects India's growing global profile and its role as a voice for the Global South. Discussions are expected to cover the impact of the West Asia crisis on energy security and global trade, technology, and critical minerals. A potential meeting between Modi and US President Donald Trump has not been officially confirmed.
The visit concludes on June 18 in Paris, where Modi and Macron will attend VivaTech 2026, a major European technology and innovation gathering. India will have the largest pavilion at the event, showcasing its innovation ecosystem.
What Readers Should Know
- Modi's itinerary includes bilateral talks, G7 outreach, and tech events.
- Key focus areas: defence, trade, technology, Global South, and energy security.
- First PM-level visit to Slovakia since 1993.
- India-EU FTA momentum and strategic partnership with France.
FAQ
What is the purpose of PM Modi's visit to France and Slovakia?
PM Modi is visiting France and Slovakia to attend the G7 Summit outreach sessions and hold bilateral talks, focusing on defence, trade, technology, and Global South issues.
Which events will PM Modi attend in France?
He will attend bilateral talks with President Macron, inaugurate Bharat Innovates in Nice, participate in G7 outreach sessions in Evian, and attend VivaTech 2026 in Paris.
Why is the Slovakia visit significant?
It is the first visit by an Indian PM since Slovakia's independence in 1993, aimed at boosting bilateral ties and building on the India-EU free trade agreement.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com