Prime Minister Modi Embarks on Six-Day Diplomatic Tour Across Europe and UAE
Overview of the Diplomatic Journey
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a six-day diplomatic mission to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The primary goal of this trip is to enhance bilateral relations amid the current geopolitical turmoil.
Key focuses of the visit include ensuring energy security, mitigating trade disruptions caused by the crisis in West Asia, and fostering collaboration in critical technologies.
Engagements in the UAE
According to spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal from the Ministry of External Affairs, during the next six days, the Prime Minister will engage with various global leaders on a range of topics aimed at strengthening India's international partnerships. His first stop will be the UAE, where he will hold extensive discussions with President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to advance the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and exchange views on the West Asia conflict.
Before heading to Europe, Modi will spend approximately four hours in the Gulf nation.
Key Agreements Expected
Following the discussions between Modi and Al Nahyan, two significant agreements are anticipated to be finalized, aimed at enhancing cooperation in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and strategic petroleum reserves.
The escalating tensions between the US and Iran have severely destabilized global energy markets, primarily due to Tehran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial transit route responsible for nearly 20% of the world's petroleum supply.
Strengthening Trade Relations
Discussions are also expected to focus on boosting bilateral trade and investment ties. Officials noted that the UAE is India's third-largest trading partner and has been the seventh-largest source of total investments over the past 25 years. With over 4.5 million Indians residing in the UAE, this visit will also serve as an opportunity to discuss the welfare of the Indian community.
Next Stops: Netherlands and Sweden
In the second phase of his journey, Modi will visit the Netherlands from May 15 to 17, marking his second trip there since 2017. During this visit, he is scheduled to meet with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, as well as hold talks with Prime Minister Rob Jetten.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that this trip will further deepen the multifaceted partnership between the two nations, with the Netherlands being one of India's largest trading destinations in Europe.
Focus on Green Energy and Technology
The bilateral trade between India and the Netherlands was valued at $27.8 billion in 2024-25, making the European nation India's fourth-largest investor with a total of $55.6 billion in foreign direct investment. Modi's visit is expected to advance high-level meetings and close cooperation in various sectors, including defense, security, innovation, green hydrogen, semiconductors, and water.
Visit to Norway and Italy
Following the Netherlands, Modi will travel to Sweden from May 17 to 18 at the invitation of Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. This will be his second visit to Sweden since the first India-Nordic summit in 2018.
The Ministry of External Affairs indicated that Modi will discuss all aspects of bilateral relations with Kristersson, exploring new avenues for enhancing mutual trade.
Final Stages of the Tour
In the fourth phase, Modi will visit Norway from May 18 to 19, where he will participate in the third India-Nordic summit and engage in bilateral talks with the leadership. This will mark Modi's first visit to Norway and the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years.
He is expected to meet with King Harald V and Queen Sonja, as well as address the India-Norway Business and Research Summit.
Concluding the Tour in Italy
In the final leg of his journey, Modi will officially visit Italy from May 19 to 20 at the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. His last visit to Italy was for the G7 summit in June 2024.
During this trip, he will meet with President Sergio Mattarella and hold discussions with Prime Minister Meloni, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations in investment, defense, security, clean energy, innovation, and science and technology.