Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday embarked on an official visit to France and a state visit to Slovakia, aimed at deepening ties and strengthening partnerships with European countries. The visit underscores India's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and global cooperation.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
PM Modi is visiting France at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron and Slovakia at the invitation of Prime Minister Robert Fico. In his departure statement, Modi highlighted France's special place in India's strategic vision. He noted that earlier this year, President Macron visited India, elevating the relationship to a Special Global Strategic Partnership. During his meeting with Macron in Nice, Modi will review progress and chart next steps in cooperation, while discussing pressing global issues of mutual interest.
Inauguration of 'Bharat Innovates'
On June 14, PM Modi and President Macron will inaugurate 'Bharat Innovates' in Nice, a landmark event set against the India-France Year of Innovation. This initiative will connect India's most promising startups with global investment and serve as a major accelerator for innovations from India's higher education ecosystem.
Historic Visit to Slovakia
From Nice, Modi will travel to Slovakia for a state visit from June 14-15, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister since Slovakia's independence in 1993. He will hold discussions with President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava, and interact with Slovak business leaders. The visit aims to energise the Strategic Partnership with the European Union, building on the momentum of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement.
Participation in G7 Summit
From Slovakia, Modi will travel to Evian for the G7 Summit on June 16-17. This marks India's eighth consecutive invitation to the G7, reflecting trust in India's growing global profile. Modi stated that India will speak for itself and give voice to the aspirations of the Global South.
VivaTech 2026 and Diaspora Engagement
Modi will conclude his France visit in Paris on June 18, attending VivaTech 2026 alongside President Macron. India will have the largest national pavilion at Europe's foremost technology and innovation gathering, symbolising the potential for partnership between Indian and European innovation ecosystems. He also looks forward to meeting the vibrant Indian community in Paris, described as a living bridge between the two nations.
In a post on X, PM Modi emphasised that the focus of his visits will be on boosting economic and cultural linkages. The visit reaffirms India's commitment to advancing its broader strategic partnership with the European Union and showcases its role as a leading voice of the Global South.
