New Delhi, June 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-nation visit to France and Slovakia this Saturday. During his discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, defense cooperation is expected to be a key topic. Amid rising strategic competition in crucial maritime regions, India aims to bolster its military capabilities, making the strengthening of defense partnerships a significant focus for both leaders.
At the invitation of President Macron, Prime Minister Modi will officially visit Nice, France, from June 13 to 14. Following this, he will travel to Avignon and Paris from June 16 to 19.
On June 14, in Nice, Prime Minister Modi will engage in bilateral talks with President Macron, where both leaders will conduct a comprehensive review of all aspects of India-France relations.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both leaders will jointly inaugurate the ‘India Innovates’ program, which will feature prominent startups and venture capital funds from India, France, and several other countries.
The MEA stated, “This major event, held during the India-France Innovation Year, will further strengthen the robust innovation partnership between the two nations.”
From June 14 to 16, Prime Minister Modi will undertake a state visit to Slovakia at the invitation of his Slovak counterpart, Robert Fico. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Slovakia since its independence in 1993.
During this visit, discussions between Prime Minister Modi and Robert Fico will cover new areas of cooperation. Modi will also meet with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini.
The MEA emphasized, “This visit will reaffirm India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Slovakia across various sectors, including trade, investment, automotive, and railway manufacturing.”
In the third phase of his journey, Prime Minister Modi will return to France to participate in the G7 summit in Avignon from June 16 to 17. During the summit, he will engage with leaders from G7 nations, as well as invited partner countries and international organizations, discussing various global issues.
On June 18, Prime Minister Modi will head to Paris for the final leg of his trip, where he will participate in several bilateral meetings and attend the largest technology and startup event in Europe, the VivaTech summit.
He is also expected to address members of the Indian community in Paris.
The MEA noted, “The Prime Minister’s upcoming European visit will deepen India’s partnerships with France, Slovakia, and G7 nations. His presence at the G7 reflects India’s growing role as a significant voice for the Global South and a key partner in addressing global challenges.”
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